RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

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

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

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.