RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Tom Santi (Virginia) - 2008 NFL Draft Pick #196 by IND

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Tom Santi - 2008 NFL Draft

Player Profile:
  • Name: Tom Santi
  • Position: Tight End
  • College: University of Virginia
  • Height: 6'4"
  • Weight: 250 lbs

Strengths:

  • Versatile Skill Set: Santi was known for his ability to line up both as a traditional tight end and as a slot receiver, demonstrating good hands and route-running ability.
  • Blocking Ability: He displayed solid blocking skills in both the run game and pass protection, making him a valuable asset for offensive schemes that utilize tight ends in multiple roles.
  • Football IQ: Santi had a high football IQ, allowing him to make quick decisions and adjustments on the field, which helped him contribute to the offense effectively.

Weaknesses:

  • Speed Concerns: While he was a reliable target, Santi lacked elite speed, which could limit his effectiveness in stretching the field.
  • Injury History: He dealt with some injuries during his college career, raising concerns about his durability at the professional level.

Overall Projection:

Tom Santi was projected to be a mid-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. His combination of blocking ability and receiving skills made him an attractive option for teams looking for a versatile tight end. While he may not have been the most dynamic athlete, his reliable hands and solid football fundamentals were expected to provide value in a variety of offensive systems.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, teams viewed Santi as a potential contributor who could develop into a reliable backup tight end or even a starter, depending on the offensive scheme and the needs of the team that selected him.