Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Gerald Butler () - 1977 NFL Draft Pick #182 by CHI

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Gerald Butler - 1977 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Gerald Butler
• Position: Linebacker
• College: University of Southern California (USC)

Overview:

Gerald Butler entered the 1977 NFL Draft as a highly regarded linebacker from USC, known for his athleticism and playmaking ability. His performance during college showcased his skills, making him an attractive prospect for NFL teams.

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Butler possessed exceptional speed for his position, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make plays all over the field.
• Tackling Ability: Renowned for his strong tackling technique, he was able to bring down ball carriers effectively, often leading to game-changing stops.
• Football IQ: Butler demonstrated a strong understanding of the game, often reading plays and reacting quickly to opposing offenses.
• Leadership: As a captain at USC, he exhibited leadership qualities that could translate well to an NFL locker room.

Weaknesses:

• Size Concerns: At 6'1" and 220 pounds, there were questions about his ability to hold up against larger NFL players.
• Injury History: He had dealt with some injuries in college, raising concerns about his durability at the professional level.

Draft Projection:

Gerald Butler was projected to be selected in the early to mid rounds of the 1977 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a versatile linebacker with the ability to impact both run and pass defense were particularly interested in his skill set.

Conclusion:

Gerald Butler was viewed as a promising prospect with the potential to develop into a starter in the NFL. His college career at USC left a lasting impression, and many scouts believed he could make an immediate impact on special teams while developing into a reliable linebacker.