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

Eric Heitmann (Stanford) - 2002 NFL Draft Pick #239 by SF

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Eric Heitmann - 2002 NFL Draft

Player Profile:
  • Name: Eric Heitmann
  • College: Stanford University
  • Position: Center
  • Height: 6'2"
  • Weight: 300 lbs
Strengths:
  • Heitmann displayed exceptional intelligence on the field, demonstrating a strong understanding of defensive schemes and blocking assignments.
  • He had a solid anchor, making it difficult for defenders to push him back in pass protection.
  • His experience in the Pac-10 gave him valuable exposure to various defensive styles, preparing him for the NFL.
  • Good mobility for a center; he could pull effectively on running plays and get to the second level.
Weaknesses:
  • Heitmann lacked elite athleticism, which could limit his effectiveness against faster NFL defensive tackles.
  • While he was technically sound, he sometimes struggled with overpowering opponents, which could be an issue at the next level.
  • Injury history during college raised some concerns about his durability in the NFL.
Projected Draft Round:
  • Heitmann was projected to be selected in the late rounds of the draft, likely between the 5th and 7th rounds, depending on team needs.
Conclusion:

Eric Heitmann was viewed as a solid, reliable center who could provide depth and versatility on an NFL roster. His intelligence and experience were his greatest assets, but concerns about his athleticism and durability kept him from being a higher draft pick. Teams looking for a dependable interior lineman who could develop over time would find Heitmann an appealing choice in the later rounds.