Steve Rivera (College Stats) - 1976 NFL Draft Pick #100 by SF
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Steve Rivera (1976 NFL Draft)
Player Profile:
Steve Rivera was a standout wide receiver from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Known for his speed and agility, he showcased his ability to make big plays and was a key contributor to his college team's offense.
- Height: 6'1"
- Weight: 190 lbs
- Position: Wide Receiver
- College: UCLA
College Stats:
- Receiving Yards: 1,200+ yards over college career
- Touchdowns: 10+ touchdowns
- Average Yards per Reception: 15+ yards
Strengths:
- Speed: Rivera possessed exceptional speed, allowing him to stretch the field and create separation from defenders.
- Route Running: His ability to run precise routes made him a reliable target for quarterbacks.
- Hands: Known for his sure hands, Rivera could consistently make difficult catches in traffic.
Weaknesses:
- Size: At 6'1", he was considered slightly undersized compared to some of the bigger wide receivers in the league.
- Physicality: Rivera sometimes struggled against more physical cornerbacks, which could limit his effectiveness in certain matchups.
Overall Assessment:
Leading up to the 1976 NFL Draft, Steve Rivera was seen as a promising talent with the potential to make an impact at the professional level. Teams were intrigued by his combination of speed and route-running ability, making him a potential mid-round selection. His college production and playmaking ability suggested he could develop into a valuable asset for an NFL offense.