Sunday, April 18, 1999
Patriots draft George
BY GEOFF HOBSON
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Winton Woods High School product Tony George from the University of Florida got the call in the third round Saturday as the New England Patriots made him the 91st selection in the NFL draft.
The 5-foot-10, 198-pound George, projected a safety, switched to cornerback last season and drove his pro stock up with a solid year in coverage.
“He can play corner on a third wide receiver at times,” said Patriots coach Pete Carroll. “Versatility is very important to us. He's a tremendous kid, a leader on that club. He's a great effort guy. We've brought in a heart-and-soul kid.”
George is ready to play both corner and safety: “I really don't have a preference. It just comes down to what a person can do.”
George earned his reputationas a playmaker early on, making 17 interceptions while playing for Winton Woods. He then added to his resume with 53 career special team tackles in college.
New England free safety Willie Clay and his backup, Chris Carter, a third-round pick himself two years ago, have struggled at times and George should get a good look.
George assured the Boston media via a conference call that his diabetes rarely bothers him and he has learned to take care of himself.
“We think it's very much under control,” Carroll said.
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