Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Kurt Kittner (Illinois) - 2002 NFL Draft Pick #158 by ATL

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Kurt Kittner

College: University of Illinois
Position: Quarterback
Height/Weight: 6'3", 210 lbs

Overview

Kurt Kittner was a standout quarterback for the Illinois Fighting Illini, known for his strong arm and leadership on the field. His performance during his college career positioned him as a notable prospect leading up to the 2002 NFL Draft.

Strengths

• Strong Arm: Kittner demonstrated an impressive ability to throw the ball deep, showcasing his arm strength and accuracy on long passes.
• Leadership: He was recognized for his leadership qualities, often rallying his teammates and performing well in clutch situations.
• Football IQ: Kittner displayed a solid understanding of offensive schemes and showed the ability to read defenses effectively.
• Durability: Throughout his college career, he managed to stay healthy and played consistently, which is a valuable asset for any quarterback.

Weaknesses

• Mobility: While Kittner had decent athleticism, his foot speed and mobility were not on par with some of the more dynamic quarterbacks in the draft.
• Inconsistency: At times, Kittner struggled with consistency in his passing, particularly under pressure, which raised concerns among scouts.
• Mechanics: Some analysts noted that his throwing mechanics could be improved, particularly in terms of footwork and follow-through.

Conclusion

Kurt Kittner was viewed as a solid quarterback prospect entering the 2002 NFL Draft. With his strong arm and leadership qualities, he had the potential to develop into a reliable starter in the NFL. However, teams were wary of his inconsistency and mechanical issues, which could affect his performance at the next level. Kittner was expected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, depending on team needs and quarterback depth in the class.