Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Raymond Priester (Clemson) - 1998 NFL Draft Pick #129 by STL

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Raymond Priester (Clemson)

Overview: Raymond Priester was a highly regarded running back from Clemson University, known for his speed, agility, and ability to break tackles. Heading into the 1998 NFL Draft, he was considered one of the top running back prospects. Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Priester possessed impressive straight-line speed, making him a threat to score on any play. His quickness allowed him to navigate through defenses effectively.
• Vision: He had a keen ability to read blocks and find running lanes, which contributed to his success at the college level.
• Durability: Priester showcased a strong work ethic and durability throughout his college career, often carrying a heavy workload without showing significant signs of wear.
• Receiving Skills: He demonstrated versatility by being a capable receiver out of the backfield, which added another dimension to his game.

Weaknesses:

• Size: At 5'11" and around 215 pounds, some scouts questioned whether he had the ideal size to be an every-down back in the NFL.
• Blocking Ability: While he excelled as a runner, there were concerns about his pass protection skills, which could limit his effectiveness on third downs.

Projected Draft Position: Raymond Priester was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1998 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a dynamic running back with the ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game were particularly interested in his skill set. Conclusion: Priester was viewed as a solid prospect with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of speed, vision, and versatility made him an attractive option for teams in need of a playmaking running back.