Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Mike Mercer () - 1961 NFL Draft Pick #197 by MIN

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Mike Mercer - 1961 NFL Draft

Player Overview: Mike Mercer, a standout athlete from the University of Georgia, was known for his versatility and strong performance on the field. He played primarily as a quarterback but also showcased skills as a punter and kicker.

• Position: Quarterback
• College: University of Georgia
• Height: 6'2"
• Weight: 210 lbs

Strengths:

• Strong Arm: Mercer possessed a powerful arm, capable of making deep throws, which made him a threat in the passing game.
• Football IQ: He demonstrated a sharp understanding of the game, allowing him to read defenses effectively.
• Leadership: Mercer was a natural leader both on and off the field, often rallying his teammates and inspiring confidence.
• Versatility: His ability to play multiple positions added value to his overall draft stock.

Weaknesses:

• Injury History: Mercer had a few injury concerns during his collegiate career, which raised some red flags for NFL teams.
• Consistency: While he had moments of brilliance, there were times when his performance dipped, leading to questions about his reliability.

Projected Draft Position:

Mike Mercer was projected as a mid-round pick in the 1961 NFL Draft. Teams were intrigued by his potential but wary of his injury history and consistency issues.

Conclusion:

Mike Mercer was seen as a player with significant upside, particularly for teams looking for a versatile quarterback. His strong arm and leadership qualities made him an appealing prospect, but teams would need to weigh his injury concerns against his potential for success at the professional level.