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Ryan Fitzpatrick (Harvard) - 2005 NFL Draft Pick #250 by STL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Ryan Fitzpatrick (2005 NFL Draft)

Ryan Fitzpatrick, a quarterback from Harvard University, entered the 2005 NFL Draft with a unique profile that set him apart from his peers. Below is an analysis of his strengths, weaknesses, and overall projection leading into the draft.

Strengths:

• Intelligence: Fitzpatrick was known for his exceptional intelligence on and off the field, having graduated from Harvard. His ability to quickly grasp complex offensive schemes was a significant asset.
• Leadership: He had a reputation for being a strong leader, both in the locker room and on the field, which endeared him to teammates and coaches alike.
• Arm Strength: Fitzpatrick possessed decent arm strength, allowing him to make throws to all areas of the field effectively.
• Mobility: Although not a dual-threat quarterback in the traditional sense, he had good enough mobility to evade pressure and extend plays.
• Work Ethic: His dedication to improving his game and preparing for opponents was frequently highlighted, indicating a strong work ethic.

Weaknesses:

• Experience: Coming from an Ivy League school, Fitzpatrick faced questions about the level of competition he faced in college and how it would translate to the NFL.
• Consistency: There were concerns about his consistency in performance, particularly under pressure during games.
• Mechanical Issues: Scouts noted that his throwing mechanics could be improved, which sometimes affected his accuracy.
• Injury History: Although not a major concern, there were some questions regarding durability based on his college career.

Overall Projection:

Fitzpatrick was projected to be a late-round pick in the 2005 NFL Draft. Teams valued his intelligence and leadership, but his lack of high-level competition experience and inconsistency raised red flags. Analysts believed he had the potential to develop into a reliable backup quarterback with the right coaching and system.