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Ray Preston () - 1976 NFL Draft Pick #295 by SDG

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Ray Preston - 1976 NFL Draft

Player Overview:
Ray Preston was a standout linebacker from the University of Southern California (USC), known for his exceptional athleticism and strong defensive skills. His performance in college made him one of the top prospects heading into the 1976 NFL Draft. Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Preston exhibited remarkable speed for a linebacker, which allowed him to cover ground quickly and make plays all over the field.
• Tackling Ability: He was known for his solid tackling technique, often bringing down opponents with authority.
• Football IQ: Preston showed a keen understanding of the game, reading plays effectively and making quick decisions.
• Leadership: As a captain at USC, he demonstrated strong leadership qualities, both on and off the field, earning the respect of teammates and coaches.

Weaknesses:

• Injury History: Concerns about previous injuries during his college career raised red flags for some NFL teams.
• Pass Coverage: While effective against the run, there were questions about his ability to cover faster, more agile receivers in passing situations.

Projected Draft Position:
Ray Preston was projected to be selected in the early rounds of the 1976 NFL Draft, with many analysts predicting he would be a strong candidate for teams looking for immediate defensive help. Conclusion:
Ray Preston was viewed as a talented linebacker with the potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level, provided he could stay healthy and continue to develop his skills in pass coverage. His leadership and defensive prowess made him a valuable asset for any NFL team looking to bolster their defense in the upcoming draft.