Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Donovan McNabb (Syracuse) - 1999 NFL Draft Pick #2 by PHI

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Donovan McNabb

College: Syracuse University
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 240 lbs

Overview

Donovan McNabb was a highly regarded quarterback coming out of Syracuse in the 1999 NFL Draft. Known for his athleticism, strong arm, and leadership qualities, McNabb was seen as a transformative talent capable of changing the dynamics of a franchise.

Strengths

• Arm Strength: McNabb possessed a powerful arm that allowed him to make deep throws and fit the ball into tight windows.
• Mobility: His athleticism enabled him to escape pressure and extend plays, making him a dual-threat quarterback.
• Leadership: McNabb was known for his strong leadership skills, both on and off the field, earning the respect of his teammates and coaches.
• Experience: Having played in a pro-style offense at Syracuse, he was viewed as ready to transition to the NFL.

Weaknesses

• Inconsistency: At times, McNabb struggled with accuracy and decision-making under pressure, which raised concerns among scouts.
• Injury History: There were worries about his durability, as he had dealt with some injuries during his college career.

Projected Draft Position

McNabb was projected to be a top-5 pick in the 1999 NFL Draft, with several teams in need of a franchise quarterback considering him as a potential cornerstone player for their offenses.

Conclusion

Donovan McNabb's unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill set made him one of the most exciting quarterback prospects leading up to the 1999 NFL Draft. Scouts and analysts believed he had the potential to develop into a franchise quarterback capable of leading a team to success in the NFL.