Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Carl Wafer () - 1974 NFL Draft Pick #42 by DEN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Carl Wafer (1974 NFL Draft)

Position: Linebacker
College: University of Southern California (USC)

Overview

Carl Wafer was considered one of the standout linebackers in college football during his time at USC. Known for his speed, tackling ability, and football IQ, Wafer had a significant impact on the Trojans' defense and was a key player in several key games during his college career.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Wafer possessed excellent lateral movement and quickness, allowing him to cover ground rapidly and pursue plays effectively.
• Tackling: He was known for his strong tackling technique, capable of bringing down ball carriers with authority.
• Football Intelligence: Wafer demonstrated a high understanding of defensive schemes and was adept at reading plays, making him a reliable linebacker.
• Leadership: As a team captain, he exhibited strong leadership qualities both on and off the field, earning the respect of teammates and coaches alike.

Areas for Improvement

• Size: While Wafer was effective, some scouts noted that he could be undersized for a traditional NFL linebacker, which might affect his ability to shed blocks against larger offensive players.
• Pass Coverage: While competent, his coverage skills were seen as an area needing development to match the demands of the professional game.

Draft Projection

Carl Wafer was projected to be selected in the early to mid rounds of the 1974 NFL Draft. His combination of speed and instinct made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps. If he could continue to develop his skills, he had the potential to become a solid contributor at the next level.