Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Steve Nelson () - 1974 NFL Draft Pick #34 by NE

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1974 NFL Draft Pre-Draft Analysis: Steve Nelson

Player Profile:

• Name: Steve Nelson
• College: University of Nebraska
• Position: Linebacker
• Height: 6'1"
• Weight: 225 lbs

Strengths:

• Intelligence: Nelson demonstrated a high football IQ, understanding defensive schemes and making quick adjustments on the field.
• Physicality: Known for his tough, hard-hitting style of play, he was effective in both run support and pass coverage.
• Leadership: Nelson was a natural leader on the field, often serving as a captain and motivating his teammates.
• Versatility: He had the ability to play multiple linebacker positions, which made him a valuable asset for any defensive scheme.

Weaknesses:

• Speed: While he was quick, he lacked elite speed which could hinder his ability to cover faster receivers and running backs.
• Injury Concerns: There were some concerns about past injuries that could affect his durability at the professional level.

Overall Analysis:

Steve Nelson was viewed as a strong prospect for the 1974 NFL Draft. His combination of intelligence, physical play, and leadership qualities made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps. While there were some concerns regarding his speed and injury history, many scouts believed that his football instincts and ability to read plays would allow him to succeed at the next level. He was projected to be selected in the early rounds of the draft, with teams particularly interested in his potential to make an immediate impact on defense.