Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Kinnon Tatum (Notre Dame) - 1997 NFL Draft Pick #87 by CAR

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Kinnon Tatum (1997 NFL Draft)

College: Notre Dame
Position: Defensive Back

Overview

Kinnon Tatum was a standout defensive back for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Known for his speed, agility, and football IQ, Tatum was a key player in the secondary, contributing significantly to the team's defensive efforts during his collegiate career.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Tatum possessed excellent straight-line speed and lateral quickness, making him a formidable presence on the field.
• Coverage Skills: His ability to read the quarterback and anticipate plays allowed him to excel in pass coverage.
• Physicality: Despite being a defensive back, Tatum was not afraid to step up and make tackles, showcasing his toughness and willingness to engage with offensive players.
• Football IQ: Tatum demonstrated a strong understanding of defensive schemes, often positioning himself effectively to disrupt plays.

Weaknesses

• Inconsistency: While Tatum had standout games, there were instances where his performance fluctuated, leading to concerns about his reliability.
• Size: At 5'10" and around 185 pounds, some scouts questioned whether he had the size to compete against larger receivers in the NFL.

Projected Draft Position

Kinnon Tatum was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 1997 NFL Draft. His combination of speed and coverage ability made him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary.

Conclusion

Kinnon Tatum's collegiate performance at Notre Dame showcased his potential as a defensive back in the NFL. While concerns about his consistency and size might have impacted his draft stock, his athleticism and football acumen made him a player to watch as teams evaluated their needs for the upcoming season.