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

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

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

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.