Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

John Phillips (Virginia) - 2009 NFL Draft Pick #208 by DAL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for John Phillips - 2009 NFL Draft

Position: Tight End
College: University of Virginia

Overview

John Phillips was a promising tight end prospect entering the 2009 NFL Draft. His combination of size, athleticism, and football intelligence made him an intriguing option for NFL teams looking to bolster their offensive capabilities.

Strengths

• Size and Frame: Phillips possessed a solid build at 6'5" and around 250 pounds, giving him the physical attributes to be a reliable target.
• Blocking Ability: He was known for his effectiveness as a blocker, contributing significantly to the running game at Virginia.
• Route Running: Phillips showed good route-running skills, able to create separation and utilize his size to shield defenders.
• Intelligence: Demonstrated a strong understanding of the game, which helped him read defenses and find soft spots in coverage.

Weaknesses

• Speed: While not slow, Phillips lacked elite speed compared to other tight end prospects, which could limit his effectiveness in stretching the field.
• Injury Concerns: There were some concerns regarding past injuries that could impact his durability at the professional level.
• Consistency: At times, he struggled with concentration drops, which raised questions about his reliability as a pass-catcher.

Overall Assessment

John Phillips was viewed as a solid tight end prospect who could contribute both as a blocker and receiver. He was likely to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, appealing to teams looking for a well-rounded player who could develop into a reliable option. With the right coaching and opportunity, Phillips had the potential to become a valuable asset in the NFL.