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Josh Heupel (Oklahoma) - 2001 NFL Draft Pick #177 by MIA

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Josh Heupel - 2001 NFL Draft

Josh Heupel, the standout quarterback from the University of Oklahoma, entered the 2001 NFL Draft with considerable accolades and expectations. Here’s a detailed analysis of his strengths, weaknesses, and overall prospects:

• College Career:
  • Heupel led the Oklahoma Sooners to a national championship in 2000.
  • He was known for his impressive passing accuracy and decision-making.
  • Heupel finished his college career with significant passing yardage and a high touchdown-to-interception ratio.
• Strengths:
  • Accuracy: Heupel demonstrated exceptional accuracy on short to intermediate throws, making him a reliable option for quick passes.
  • Intelligence: Known for his football IQ, he was adept at reading defenses and making quick decisions.
  • Leadership: Heupel was recognized for his leadership on and off the field, often inspiring teammates with his work ethic and determination.
• Weaknesses:
  • Arm Strength: While effective, Heupel's arm strength was often questioned, particularly for deep throws.
  • Mobility: He lacked the mobility of many of his contemporaries, which could hinder his ability to escape pressure in the NFL.
  • Size: At 6'1", he was considered slightly undersized for a traditional NFL quarterback.
• Projected Draft Position:
  • Heupel was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, primarily due to concerns about his physical attributes compared to other top quarterback prospects.
  • Teams looking for a smart, accurate passer may have considered him a valuable pick for their quarterback depth.

Josh Heupel was viewed as a quarterback with the potential to contribute at the NFL level, particularly in a system that emphasized short passes and quick decision-making. Teams were intrigued by his college success, but concerns over his physical tools led to a cautious evaluation.