Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Mike Nelms () - 1977 NFL Draft Pick #170 by BUF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Mike Nelms - 1977 NFL Draft

Player Overview: Mike Nelms was a talented cornerback and kick returner from the University of California, Berkeley. Known for his speed, agility, and playmaking ability, he was highly regarded in college football circles.

• Position: Cornerback / Kick Returner
• College: University of California, Berkeley
• Height: 5'10"
• Weight: 180 lbs

Strengths:

• Speed: Nelms possessed exceptional speed, allowing him to cover ground quickly and keep up with fast receivers.
• Agility: His quick footwork and agility made him an elusive kick returner, capable of making defenders miss.
• Ball Skills: Demonstrated excellent hands and awareness, which contributed to his ability to intercept passes and create turnovers.
• Return Ability: Known for his explosive kick returns, Nelms consistently put his team in good field position.

Areas for Improvement:

• Size: At 5'10", he was considered undersized for a cornerback, which may limit his effectiveness against larger receivers.
• Experience: Limited experience against high-caliber competition may raise concerns regarding his readiness for the professional level.

Overall Assessment:

Mike Nelms was viewed as a promising prospect in the 1977 NFL Draft. His combination of speed and agility made him a valuable asset, particularly in the return game. While there were concerns regarding his size and experience, many teams were intrigued by his potential to develop into a starting cornerback and contribute significantly on special teams.