Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Duke Preston (Illinois) - 2005 NFL Draft Pick #122 by BUF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Duke Preston (2005 NFL Draft)

Player Overview:
Duke Preston, an offensive lineman from the University of Illinois, entered the 2005 NFL Draft with a solid reputation for his versatility and technical skills. Known for his intelligence on the field, he was regarded as a player who could effectively read defenses and execute blocking schemes. Physical Attributes:

• Height: 6'4"
• Weight: 300 lbs
• Position: Center/Guard

Strengths:

• Versatility: Capable of playing multiple positions on the offensive line, particularly center and guard.
• Football IQ: Demonstrated a deep understanding of offensive schemes, often serving as a leader on the line.
• Technique: Possessed good footwork and hand placement, allowing him to effectively engage defenders.
• Durability: Consistent presence in the starting lineup throughout his college career.

Areas for Improvement:

• Strength: While he had good technique, he needed to improve his upper body strength to better handle powerful NFL defensive linemen.
• Consistency: At times, his performance fluctuated, and he needed to work on maintaining a high level of play throughout games.

Draft Projection:
Preston was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, primarily due to his versatility and potential to develop into a reliable backup or starter with proper coaching. Conclusion:
Duke Preston was viewed as a valuable addition to any NFL team looking to bolster their offensive line with a player who possessed the intelligence and work ethic necessary to succeed at the professional level.