Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Randy Gradishar (College Stats) - 1974 NFL Draft Pick #14 by DEN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Randy Gradishar - 1974 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Randy Gradishar
• College: Ohio State University
• Position: Linebacker
• Height: 6'0"
• Weight: 225 lbs

College Stats:

• Tackles: 300+ total tackles over collegiate career
• Sacks: 10+ sacks
• Interceptions: 5 interceptions

Strengths:

• Instincts: Gradishar demonstrated exceptional instincts on the field, reading plays quickly and reacting effectively.
• Tackling: Known for his aggressive tackling style, he was a sure tackler who rarely missed opportunities to bring down opponents.
• Leadership: A natural leader, Gradishar was recognized for his ability to motivate teammates and direct defensive schemes.
• Versatility: Capable of playing multiple linebacker positions, showcasing his adaptability in various defensive schemes.

Weaknesses:

• Speed: While quick, he was not the fastest linebacker on the board, which raised concerns about his ability to cover faster offensive players.
• Size: At 6'0", he was considered slightly undersized compared to other linebackers, which led to concerns about his ability to effectively shed blocks from larger offensive linemen.

Overall Assessment:

Randy Gradishar was viewed as one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 1974 NFL Draft. His combination of intelligence, tackling ability, and leadership qualities made him a coveted player for NFL teams looking to strengthen their defenses. While some concerns existed regarding his speed and size, many analysts believed that his instincts and work ethic would allow him to excel at the professional level.

Projected Draft Position:

Gradishar was projected to be selected in the first round of the 1974 NFL Draft, with many teams eager to secure a player of his caliber to anchor their defense.