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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Patrick Surtain (Southern Miss) - 1998 NFL Draft Pick #44 by MIA

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis: Patrick Surtain (1998 NFL Draft)

College: Southern Mississippi

Position: Cornerback

Height: 6'0"

Weight: 190 lbs

Overview

Patrick Surtain was a highly regarded cornerback coming out of Southern Mississippi, known for his physical style of play, exceptional ball skills, and ability to lock down wide receivers. Scouts praised his combination of size, speed, and technique, making him one of the top defensive prospects in the 1998 NFL Draft.

Strengths

  • Physicality: Surtain was known for his aggressive play and ability to jam receivers at the line of scrimmage, disrupting their routes.
  • Ball Skills: He demonstrated excellent hands and timing, often making plays on the ball and recording interceptions.
  • Coverage Ability: Surtain was adept at both man and zone coverage, showcasing his versatility to defend against various offensive schemes.
  • Football IQ: His understanding of the game allowed him to read quarterbacks and anticipate plays, making him a reliable defender.

Weaknesses

  • Injury Concerns: There were some concerns regarding his durability after suffering minor injuries during his college career.
  • Consistency: While talented, some scouts noted that he needed to improve his consistency in technique and decision-making under pressure.

Projection

Given his skill set and potential, Patrick Surtain was projected to be selected in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a cornerstone cornerback to bolster their secondary were expected to have him high on their draft boards.

Conclusion

Patrick Surtain was hailed as one of the premier cornerback prospects in the 1998 NFL Draft class. With a blend of physical tools and football intelligence, he was seen as a player who could make an immediate impact at the professional level.