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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

David Paulson (Oregon) - 2012 NFL Draft Pick #240 by PIT

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for David Paulson (Oregon) - 2012 NFL Draft

Position: Tight End

College: University of Oregon

Overview

David Paulson was a standout tight end at the University of Oregon, known for his versatility and ability to contribute in both the passing and running game. His experience in a fast-paced offense made him a valuable asset for NFL teams looking for a well-rounded tight end.

Strengths

  • Receiving Skills: Paulson demonstrated reliable hands and the ability to catch passes in traffic. He showed good route-running ability, making him a threat in the passing game.
  • Blocking Ability: He was not just a receiving tight end; Paulson could effectively block for the run game, showcasing good technique and strength.
  • Football IQ: His understanding of the game and ability to read defenses allowed him to find soft spots in coverage, making him a reliable target for quarterbacks.
  • Speed and Agility: Paulson possessed decent speed for a tight end, allowing him to stretch the field and create mismatches against linebackers.

Weaknesses

  • Size: At 6'4" and around 250 pounds, he was not the biggest tight end in the draft, which could limit his effectiveness against stronger defenders.
  • Inconsistent Blocking: While he was a capable blocker, there were moments where he struggled against larger defensive ends, which could raise concerns in NFL matchups.
  • Limited Experience: His role in Oregon's offense did not always require him to showcase a full range of tight end skills, which could lead to questions about his adaptability in a pro-style offense.

Pro Comparison

Some analysts compared Paulson to tight ends like Daniel Graham for his combination of receiving and blocking skills, suggesting he could develop into a reliable starter with the right coaching and opportunity.

Draft Projection

David Paulson was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2012 NFL Draft, potentially as a valuable addition to a team looking to bolster their tight end depth with a player who can contribute immediately in multiple facets of the game.