Josh Lay (Pittsburgh) - 2006 NFL Draft Pick #174 by NO
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Josh Lay (2006 NFL Draft)
Position: Cornerback
College: University of Pittsburgh
Overview
Josh Lay was a talented cornerback coming out of the University of Pittsburgh, known for his physical play and ability to defend against both the run and pass. He was a late-round prospect who showcased potential in his collegiate career.
Strengths
- Size and Physicality: Lay possessed good size for a cornerback, making him a matchup problem for smaller receivers.
- Ball Skills: He demonstrated solid ball skills, often making plays on the ball and showing the ability to intercept passes.
- Run Support: Lay was known for his willingness to support the run, often stepping up to make tackles in the open field.
- Experience: Having played multiple seasons at a high level in the Big East, Lay had valuable game experience.
Weaknesses
- Speed: While Lay had decent speed, he lacked the elite speed that many NFL teams desired in a cornerback.
- Consistent Technique: At times, his technique was inconsistent, particularly in press coverage situations.
- Injury History: Lay had some injury concerns during his college career that raised red flags for scouts.
Draft Projection
Josh Lay was projected to be selected in the late rounds of the 2006 NFL Draft. His physical attributes and experience made him an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their secondary depth.
Conclusion
While Josh Lay wasn't considered a top-tier cornerback prospect, his combination of size, experience, and willingness to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a player worth taking a chance on in the later rounds of the draft.