Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Teddy Gaines (Tennessee) - 2002 NFL Draft Pick #256 by SF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Teddy Gaines (2002 NFL Draft)

College: University of Tennessee

Position: Cornerback

Overview

Teddy Gaines was a standout cornerback at the University of Tennessee, known for his speed, agility, and ball-hawking skills. As a key member of the Volunteers' defense, Gaines showcased his ability to shut down opposing receivers and contribute to the team's overall success.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Gaines possesses exceptional speed, making him capable of keeping up with the fastest receivers in the league.
• Ball Skills: He has a knack for intercepting passes and creating turnovers, demonstrating excellent awareness and timing.
• Physicality: Despite being a cornerback, Gaines is not afraid to tackle and can hold his own against the run.
• Experience: Playing in the SEC, he faced top-tier competition, which prepared him well for the NFL's challenges.

Weaknesses

• Size: Some scouts noted that Gaines could struggle against larger, more physical receivers due to his smaller frame.
• Consistency: While he had several standout games, there were moments of inconsistency that raised concerns about his reliability.

Overall Assessment

Teddy Gaines was viewed as a promising prospect heading into the 2002 NFL Draft. While he may not have been a consensus top cornerback, his combination of speed and playmaking ability made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their secondary. With proper coaching and development, he had the potential to become a solid contributor in the NFL.

Projected Draft Position

Most analysts projected Gaines to be selected in the 2nd to 4th round of the 2002 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and the depth of the cornerback class that year.