Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Brian Ruff () - 1977 NFL Draft Pick #304 by BAL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Brian Ruff (1977 NFL Draft)

Position: Linebacker

College: University of Michigan

Overview

Brian Ruff was considered one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 1977 NFL Draft. His performance at the college level, combined with his physical attributes, made him a standout player.

Strengths

• Versatile Skill Set: Ruff demonstrated the ability to excel in both run defense and pass coverage, a crucial asset for modern linebackers.
• Football Intelligence: Known for his strong understanding of the game, Ruff excelled in reading plays and anticipating the opponent's moves.
• Physicality: He possessed a solid frame and was not afraid to mix it up, making him an effective tackler.
• Leadership: Ruff was recognized as a team leader during his college career, often motivating and directing teammates on the field.

Areas for Improvement

• Speed: While he had good acceleration, concerns about his top-end speed were noted, which could affect his coverage abilities at the next level.
• Injury Concerns: There were some questions regarding his durability, as he had dealt with minor injuries during his college career.

Pro Comparison

Scouts compared Ruff to established NFL linebackers of the era, noting his potential to develop into a starter with the right coaching and opportunity.

Projected Draft Position

Brian Ruff was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1977 NFL Draft, with many teams expressing interest in bolstering their linebacker corps.