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Allen Rossum (Notre Dame) - 1998 NFL Draft Pick #85 by PHI

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Allen Rossum - 1998 NFL Draft

Player Profile:
Allen Rossum, a standout cornerback and return specialist from Notre Dame, showcased impressive skills during his college career. Known for his speed and agility, Rossum was a key player for the Fighting Irish, making significant contributions on both defense and special teams. Strengths:

• Speed: Rossum possesses exceptional straight-line speed, making him a threat on kick and punt returns.
• Agility: His quickness allows him to make sharp cuts and evade tacklers, enhancing his effectiveness as a returner.
• Ball Skills: Demonstrated good hands and awareness, capable of making plays on the ball as a cornerback.
• Versatility: Played both cornerback and as a return specialist, providing value in multiple roles on the field.
• Work Ethic: Known for his dedication and hard work, Rossum consistently sought to improve his game.

Areas for Improvement:

• Size: At 5'10" and around 180 pounds, Rossum may be considered undersized for a starting cornerback in the NFL.
• Physicality: Needs to improve his physical play, especially in press coverage against larger receivers.
• Consistency: While he showed flashes of brilliance, Rossum needed to work on maintaining a high level of play throughout games.

Draft Projection:
Rossum was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 1998 NFL Draft, primarily due to his return skills and potential as a nickel cornerback. Teams were intrigued by his explosiveness and ability to change the game in special teams situations. Conclusion:
Allen Rossum was regarded as a promising prospect heading into the 1998 NFL Draft, with the potential to make an immediate impact on special teams while developing into a viable defensive back. His combination of speed and versatility made him an attractive option for NFL teams looking to bolster their roster.