Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Stephen Gostkowski (Memphis) - 2006 NFL Draft Pick #118 by NE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Stephen Gostkowski (2006 NFL Draft)

Player Position: Kicker

College: Memphis

Overview

Stephen Gostkowski was considered one of the top kicking prospects entering the 2006 NFL Draft. His performance at Memphis showcased both his leg strength and accuracy, making him a valuable asset for NFL teams looking to bolster their special teams.

Strengths

• Leg Strength: Gostkowski demonstrated impressive range in his kicking ability, consistently hitting field goals from beyond 50 yards during college.
• Accuracy: He boasted a high field goal percentage, showing proficiency in both short and long attempts.
• Kickoff Ability: His ability to consistently send kickoffs deep into the end zone gave him an edge over many of his peers, contributing positively to field position.
• Consistency: Throughout his college career, Gostkowski displayed a reliable and steady performance, which is crucial for a kicker.

Areas for Improvement

• Pressure Situations: While he performed well in college, questions remained about how he would handle the pressure of high-stakes NFL games.
• Experience: Some scouts noted that he lacked the experience of performing in front of large crowds, which could affect his transition to the NFL.

Draft Projection

Stephen Gostkowski was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2006 NFL Draft, with many believing he could be a valuable addition to a team needing a reliable kicker. His combination of leg strength and accuracy made him an attractive option for teams looking to secure a long-term solution at the kicker position.

Final Thoughts

Stephen Gostkowski was seen as a promising kicking prospect with the potential to succeed at the professional level. His strong collegiate performance made him a name to watch as the draft approached.