Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

John Hughes (Cincinnati) - 2012 NFL Draft Pick #87 by CLE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for John Hughes - 2012 NFL Draft

John Hughes was a defensive tackle from the University of Cincinnati, known for his strong physical presence and versatility along the defensive line. As the 2012 NFL Draft approached, analysts highlighted several key aspects of his game:

• Size and Strength: Hughes measured in at approximately 6'2" and 320 pounds, making him an ideal candidate for a defensive tackle position. His size allowed him to hold the point of attack effectively against the run.
• Quickness and Agility: Despite his bulk, Hughes displayed surprising quickness off the line of scrimmage. His agility allowed him to navigate through offensive linemen and pursue plays effectively.
• Technique: Analysts noted that Hughes had solid technique, utilizing his hands well to disengage from blockers. His ability to read plays and react quickly was also praised.
• Versatility: During his college career, Hughes showcased the ability to play both defensive tackle and defensive end. This versatility made him appealing to teams looking to bolster their defensive line depth.
• Production: Hughes recorded a number of tackles for loss and sacks during his time at Cincinnati, demonstrating his ability to disrupt opposing offenses and contribute to his team’s defensive efforts.

Hughes was viewed as a solid prospect who could develop into a reliable starter at the next level. Teams were particularly interested in his combination of size, strength, and quickness, which could translate well to the NFL.