Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

John Henderson (Tennessee) - 2002 NFL Draft Pick #9 by JAX

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Pre-Draft Analysis: John Henderson (University of Tennessee)

Position: Defensive Tackle
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 320 lbs
College: University of Tennessee

Overview

John Henderson was regarded as one of the top defensive tackle prospects in the 2002 NFL Draft. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism made him a coveted player for NFL teams looking to bolster their defensive lines.

Strengths

• Physical Attributes: Henderson possessed an imposing physical presence with his height and weight, making him difficult for offensive linemen to block.
• Run Stopping Ability: Known for his ability to clog running lanes, Henderson was exceptional at stopping the run, which made him a valuable asset in a run-heavy league.
• Pass Rush Potential: While primarily a run-stopper, he also demonstrated the ability to penetrate the backfield and apply pressure on the quarterback, showcasing his versatility.
• Work Ethic: Coaches praised his work ethic and commitment to improving his game, a quality that teams valued highly in their draft evaluations.

Weaknesses

• Injury History: Some concerns were raised about his injury history during college, which could impact his durability in the NFL.
• Stamina: There were questions about his stamina and whether he could maintain a high level of performance throughout a full game.
• Technique: While physically gifted, there were areas in his technique that needed refinement, particularly in hand usage and leverage.

Pro Projection

Due to his impressive skill set and potential, John Henderson was expected to be selected in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft. Teams with a need for a dominant defensive presence were particularly interested, and he was projected to make an immediate impact on whichever team selected him.