Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Gifford Nielsen (College Stats) - 1978 NFL Draft Pick #73 by HOU

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Gifford Nielsen - 1978 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Gifford Nielsen
• Position: Quarterback
• College: Brigham Young University (BYU)

College Stats:

• Passing Yards: 3,647 yards
• Touchdowns: 31
• Interceptions: 23
• Completion Percentage: 60.2%

Strengths:

• Strong Arm: Nielsen possessed a powerful throwing arm, capable of making all the necessary throws at the collegiate level.
• Mobility: He demonstrated good mobility in the pocket, allowing him to evade defenders and extend plays.
• Leadership: Nielsen was known for his leadership qualities on the field, often rallying his teammates during critical moments.
• Experience: Having played in a high-octane offense at BYU, he was well-prepared for the complexities of the NFL game.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistency: At times, Nielsen struggled with consistency in his performance, leading to erratic games.
• Decision Making: He occasionally made poor decisions under pressure, resulting in turnovers.

Overall Assessment:

Gifford Nielsen was viewed as a promising quarterback prospect heading into the 1978 NFL Draft. His combination of physical tools and collegiate experience made him an intriguing option for teams in need of a quarterback. However, concerns about his consistency and decision-making raised questions about his readiness for the professional level. Scouts believed that, with proper coaching and development, he could become a reliable starter in the NFL.