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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Alan Ball (Illinois) - 2007 NFL Draft Pick #237 by DAL

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Alan Ball (2007 NFL Draft)

College: University of Illinois

Player Profile

  • Position: Cornerback
  • Height: 6'2"
  • Weight: 197 lbs
  • Class: Senior

Strengths

  • Size and Length: Ball possesses an ideal frame for a cornerback, with long arms that enable him to contest passes effectively.
  • Physicality: He is a physical player who can support against the run and disrupt receivers at the line of scrimmage.
  • Ball Skills: Demonstrated good instincts and awareness, leading to a number of interceptions during his college career.
  • Versatility: Capable of playing both cornerback and safety, providing teams with flexibility in their defensive schemes.

Weaknesses

  • Top-End Speed: While adequate, his speed is not elite, which could be a concern against faster NFL receivers.
  • Footwork: Needs improvement in his footwork and technique, especially in man-to-man coverage situations.
  • Inconsistency: Had moments of brilliance but also displayed inconsistency in coverage, leading to big plays against him.

Overall Assessment

Alan Ball is a cornerback with the physical traits that NFL teams covet. His size and ball skills make him an attractive prospect, especially for teams looking for a cornerback who can also contribute in run support. However, he will need to refine his technique and improve his overall consistency to succeed at the next level. Projected as a mid-round pick, Ball has the potential to develop into a solid contributor in the NFL.