Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Wally Richardson (Penn St.) - 1997 NFL Draft Pick #234 by BAL

---

Pre-Draft Analysis: Wally Richardson

College: Penn State University

Position: Quarterback

Overview

Wally Richardson was a standout quarterback at Penn State, showcasing a combination of size, arm strength, and leadership during his college career. As a member of a prestigious program, he gained valuable experience competing at a high level in the NCAA.

Strengths

• Size and Strength: At 6'4" and 240 lbs, Richardson possessed the physical attributes desirable for an NFL quarterback.
• Arm Talent: He demonstrated a strong arm capable of making all the necessary throws, including deep passes.
• Leadership: Known for his leadership on and off the field, Richardson was often praised for his ability to rally teammates.
• Experience: Having played in a highly competitive program, he had experience in high-pressure situations, which is valuable for a quarterback transitioning to the NFL.

Weaknesses

• Consistency: There were concerns about his consistency in decision-making and accuracy during games.
• Mobility: While he had decent pocket movement, his overall mobility and ability to escape pressure were seen as limitations.
• Injury Concerns: There were some questions regarding durability due to past injuries, which could affect his long-term prospects.

Projected Draft Position

Wally Richardson was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 1997 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a developmental quarterback with potential upside might take a chance on him, particularly those that value his leadership qualities and physical attributes.

Conclusion

Wally Richardson was considered a solid quarterback prospect coming out of Penn State, with the potential to develop into a reliable backup or possibly a starter in the right system. His combination of size and arm strength made him an intriguing option for NFL teams.