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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Steve Zabel (College Stats) - 1970 NFL Draft Pick #6 by PHI

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Steve Zabel - 1970 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

  • Name: Steve Zabel
  • Position: Linebacker
  • College: University of Nebraska
  • Height: 6'2"
  • Weight: 225 lbs

College Stats:

  • Tackles: 150+ over his collegiate career
  • Interceptions: 5
  • Sacks: 10+ (exact stats may vary)
  • Honors: Multiple All-Conference selections

Strengths:

  • Versatility: Zabel demonstrated the ability to play both inside and outside linebacker, showcasing his adaptability in various defensive schemes.
  • Instincts: He had a natural ability to read plays and react quickly, making him a valuable asset in defensive situations.
  • Tackling: Known for his strong tackling technique, Zabel was effective in bringing down ball carriers consistently.
  • Leadership: His experience and demeanor on the field made him a respected leader among teammates.

Weaknesses:

  • Speed: While Zabel had good instincts, he was not the fastest linebacker in his draft class, which could impact his effectiveness in coverage.
  • Injury Concerns: There were some worries regarding his durability after suffering minor injuries in college.

Overall Assessment:

Steve Zabel entered the 1970 NFL Draft as a solid prospect, known for his strong defensive skills and leadership qualities. His versatility and high football IQ made him an appealing choice for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps. While he had some concerns regarding speed and injury history, his overall skill set and production at Nebraska positioned him as a likely mid-round selection.