RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Tony Stewart (Penn St.) - 2001 NFL Draft Pick #147 by PHI

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Tony Stewart - 2001 NFL Draft

Tony Stewart, a standout player from Penn State, entered the 2001 NFL Draft with a solid reputation and a strong college career. Here’s a breakdown of his pre-draft analysis:

  • Position: Linebacker
  • College: Penn State
  • Height: 6'0"
  • Weight: 230 lbs

Strengths:

  • Speed and Agility: Tony exhibited impressive speed for his size, allowing him to cover ground quickly and close in on ball carriers.
  • Football IQ: Demonstrated a strong understanding of the game, which helped him read plays effectively and anticipate opponents' moves.
  • Tackling Ability: Known for his strong tackling technique, he could bring down runners and receivers with authority.
  • Versatility: Capable of playing multiple linebacker positions, making him an asset in various defensive schemes.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Size: While effective at the college level, some scouts expressed concerns about his size relative to NFL standards for linebackers.
  • Injury History: Had a few minor injuries during his college career, raising concerns about durability at the next level.
  • Pass Coverage: Although proficient against the run, there were questions about his ability to cover tight ends and running backs in passing situations.

Overall Assessment:

Tony Stewart was viewed as a solid linebacker prospect with the potential to contribute immediately on special teams and develop into a reliable starter. His combination of speed, intelligence, and tackling prowess made him an intriguing choice for teams looking to bolster their defense.

The 2001 NFL Draft offered a mix of talent, and while Stewart was not the most hyped linebacker, he had the tools necessary to carve out a successful professional career.