Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Canute Curtis (West Virginia) - 1997 NFL Draft Pick #176 by CIN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Canute Curtis (1997 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Canute Curtis
• College: West Virginia University
• Position: Linebacker
• Height: 6'2"
• Weight: 230 lbs

Overview:

Canute Curtis emerged as a standout linebacker during his time at West Virginia, showcasing a blend of speed, strength, and intelligence on the field. His ability to read plays and make tackles in crucial situations made him a valuable asset to his college team.

Strengths:

• Versatile Athlete: Curtis is capable of playing multiple linebacker positions, which adds flexibility to any defensive scheme.
• Strong Tackler: Known for his solid tackling technique, he consistently wraps up opponents and prevents yards after contact.
• Football IQ: His understanding of the game allows him to anticipate plays and be in the right position at the right time.
• Speed and Agility: Curtis possesses the lateral quickness and straight-line speed to cover ground quickly, making him effective in both pass coverage and run support.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistent Coverage Skills: While he is a strong tackler, there are concerns about his ability to cover faster, more agile receivers and tight ends.
• Injury History: Curtis has had some minor injuries during his college career, which could raise red flags for teams concerned about durability.

Draft Projection:

Canute Curtis is projected to be selected in the 2nd to 4th round of the 1997 NFL Draft. His combination of physical tools and football intelligence could make him a valuable addition to a team looking for a reliable linebacker who can develop into a starter.

Team Fit:

Teams in need of linebacker depth and those looking to add a versatile player who can contribute on special teams as well as in defensive schemes will find Curtis appealing. His ability to adapt to various defensive systems will increase his value during the draft.

``` This analysis provides a comprehensive view of Canute Curtis's strengths, weaknesses, and potential fit in the NFL based on his performance at West Virginia leading up to the 1997 NFL Draft.