Ex-Huskers struggle in NFL draft

By Marc Hudgens  |   Sunday, April 27, 2008  |  Comments( 0 )

Nebraska Cornhuskers
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Before this past Saturday, only once since 1990 has the first Nebraska NF; draftee landed any lower than second round. The year was 2004, when Huskers linebacker Demorrio Williams, who recently signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round (101st overall).

Once out of 18 years isn't bad at all, but twice in four years can be a little troubling. And that's exactly what happened during this year's draft as cornerback Zackary Bowman, the first Nebraskan to go, was selected with the seventh pick of the fifth round (142nd overall) by the Chicago Bears.

Offensive tackle Carl Nicks wasn't far behind, being chosen by the New Orleans Saints as the 29th pick of the same round (164th overall).

The last time the first Husker draftee placed this low or worse was way back in 1970, when tight end Jim McFarland was scooped up by the then-St. Louis Cardinals as the eighth pick of the seventh round. To put this into historical perspective, that was the year the Steelers drafted Terry Bradshaw from Louisiana Tech.

Nebraska had five competitors representing the school during this year's NFL combine in February: Bowman, Nicks, quarterback Sam Keller, linebacker Steve Octavien, and receiver Maurice Purify. With the exception of Octavien, none really had a strong showing before the NFL brass at Indianapolis' RCA Dome.

That is a little odd for Octavien when you consider that he's given good performances in the various drills. It's possible the linebacker's history of injuries is the concern, as during that time many head coaches and general managers stated that health was a top priority. That's arguably more important than what commenced on the field. Additionally, health -- or lack thereof -- is reportedly what lowered Bowman's draft stock.

This isn't to say these guys will fail in the NFL; there are plenty of examples of late-round players stepping up and becoming stars. It just means the cards are stacked against them more than first- and second-rounders. And Nebraska's 2008 draft class will have a lot to overcome to succeed at the professional level.
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About Marc Hudgens

Marc Hudgens has been with RealFootball365 since 2007, covering college football, specifically Clemson and Oregon. He also writes for SouthernPigskin.com covering the ACC. He enjoys the acidic wit of Hunter S. Thompson, is a freelance graphic designer and has written several screenplays. He ...
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