Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Fred Taylor (Florida) - 1998 NFL Draft Pick #9 by JAX


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Fred Taylor (1998 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:
  • Name: Fred Taylor
  • College: University of Florida
  • Position: Running Back
  • Height: 6'1"
  • Weight: 228 lbs
Strengths:
  • Exceptional speed and acceleration, making him a home-run threat on any play.
  • Strong lower body, allowing him to break tackles and gain additional yards after contact.
  • Good vision and patience, enabling him to find running lanes effectively.
  • Ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, showcasing versatility in the passing game.
  • Proven track record of production in college, consistently ranking among the top running backs in the nation.
Weaknesses:
  • Injury concerns, having faced several significant injuries during his college career.
  • Lacks experience in pass protection, which may require development at the professional level.
  • Inconsistent ball security; needs to improve on holding onto the football.
Overall Assessment:
Fred Taylor was regarded as one of the top running back prospects entering the 1998 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and agility made him a coveted player for teams looking to enhance their ground game. Despite the injury history, his potential and production at the University of Florida positioned him as a likely first-round pick. NFL teams valued his ability to contribute as both a rusher and receiver, making him an attractive option for offenses looking for a dynamic playmaker.