RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Leon Bender (Washington St.) - 1998 NFL Draft Pick #31 by OAK

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Leon Bender (1998 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

  • Name: Leon Bender
  • Position: Defensive Tackle
  • College: Washington State University
  • Height: 6'5"
  • Weight: 300 lbs

Strengths:

  • Exceptional size and strength, making him a formidable presence on the defensive line.
  • Good quickness off the snap, allowing him to penetrate the offensive line.
  • Strong hands and the ability to shed blockers effectively.
  • Consistent performer at the collegiate level with solid production statistics.
  • Versatile player who can play both defensive tackle and end in a 4-3 scheme.

Weaknesses:

  • Inconsistent motor; at times, he can appear disengaged from plays.
  • Can struggle with conditioning and stamina, leading to diminished performance in the later stages of games.
  • Needs to improve technique, particularly in pass rushing moves.
  • Injury history, which raises concerns about durability at the professional level.

Overall Assessment:

Leon Bender was considered a potential second to third round pick in the 1998 NFL Draft due to his physical attributes and collegiate performance. Scouts were intrigued by his combination of size, strength, and athleticism, but concerns about his consistency and conditioning kept him from being a first-round lock. Teams in need of defensive line depth viewed him as a project with the potential for significant upside if he could develop his technique and maintain a high level of effort throughout games.

Projected Draft Position: 2nd-3rd Round