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Aqib Talib (Kansas) - 2008 NFL Draft Pick #20 by TB

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Aqib Talib - Pre-Draft Analysis (2008 NFL Draft)

College: Kansas
Position: Cornerback
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 205 lbs

Overview:

Aqib Talib was widely regarded as one of the top cornerback prospects heading into the 2008 NFL Draft. He showcased exceptional athleticism, ball skills, and playmaking ability during his collegiate career at the University of Kansas.

Strengths:

• Physicality: Talib possesses a strong, physical presence on the field, allowing him to effectively jam receivers at the line of scrimmage.
• Ball Skills: He demonstrated a natural ability to track the ball and make interceptions, evidenced by his impressive collegiate stats.
• Athleticism: Talib is agile and has good speed, which enables him to keep up with faster receivers.
• Instincts: His football IQ and instincts allow him to read plays well and anticipate routes, making him a playmaker in the secondary.

Weaknesses:

• Off-field Issues: Talib had some off-field concerns, including a few legal issues that raised red flags for NFL teams.
• Consistency: At times, he displayed inconsistency in his technique, which could be a concern at the next level.
• Tackling: While he has the physical tools, his tackling technique needed improvement to avoid missed tackles.

Overall Assessment:

Aqib Talib was a highly talented cornerback with the potential to become a top-tier starter in the NFL. His combination of size, skill, and playmaking ability made him an attractive prospect, but his off-field issues and need for refinement in certain areas raised questions for some teams. Talib's ability to impact games and his playmaking skills were seen as significant assets that would likely lead him to be selected in the first round of the draft.

Draft Projection:

Most analysts projected Talib to be selected in the first half of the first round, with potential suitors looking for a shutdown cornerback to bolster their secondary.