Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Don Zimmerman () - 1972 NFL Draft Pick #300 by PHI

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Don Zimmerman (1972 NFL Draft)

Position: Linebacker

College: University of Maryland

Overview

Don Zimmerman was regarded as one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 1972 NFL Draft. His performance at the University of Maryland showcased his skills and potential to make a significant impact at the professional level.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Zimmerman demonstrated exceptional speed and agility for his position, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make tackles effectively.
• Tackling Ability: Known for his hard-hitting style, he was a formidable tackler who could bring down larger opponents.
• Football IQ: Zimmerman's understanding of the game was praised, as he could read plays and position himself accordingly.
• Leadership: He was not only a standout player on the field but also a leader in the locker room, earning respect from teammates and coaches alike.

Areas for Improvement

• Experience: While he had a solid college career, some analysts felt that he needed more experience against high-caliber opponents to adjust to the speed of the NFL.
• Consistency: There were times when Zimmerman struggled with consistency in his performance, particularly in coverage situations against faster receivers.

Projected Draft Position

Zimmerman was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 4th round of the 1972 NFL Draft, with several teams expressing interest in bolstering their linebacker corps.

Conclusion

Don Zimmerman was seen as a promising linebacker who could make an immediate impact for an NFL team. His combination of speed, tackling prowess, and leadership made him a valuable asset, although some concerns about his consistency and experience needed to be addressed.