Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Lionel Barnes (La-Monroe) - 1999 NFL Draft Pick #176 by STL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Lionel Barnes (1999 NFL Draft)

Player Overview: Lionel Barnes was a standout player from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, known for his versatility and athletic ability on the field. His performance in college caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to significant interest leading up to the 1999 NFL Draft.

• Position: Defensive Back
• Height: 6'1"
• Weight: 200 lbs
• College: University of Louisiana at Monroe

Strengths:

• Physicality: Barnes displayed excellent physical attributes, making him a formidable presence in the secondary.
• Speed: His speed allowed him to cover ground quickly, aiding in both pass coverage and run support.
• Ball Skills: Demonstrated strong hands and the ability to make plays on the football, with several interceptions during his college career.
• Versatility: Capable of playing multiple positions in the defensive backfield, which enhances his draft value.

Areas for Improvement:

• Technique: Needs to refine his footwork and backpedal technique to improve his coverage skills against elite receivers.
• Consistency: While he had standout performances, there were games where his play was less consistent, raising concerns.

Projected Draft Round:

Many analysts projected Lionel Barnes to be selected in the 3rd to 5th round of the 1999 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and the overall depth of the defensive back class.

Conclusion:

Lionel Barnes was viewed as a promising prospect with the potential to develop into a solid contributor at the professional level, making him a player to watch during the draft. His combination of size, athleticism, and versatility could make him a valuable asset for an NFL team looking to bolster its secondary.