Gerald Small (College Stats) - 1978 NFL Draft Pick #93 by MIA
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Gerald Small - 1978 NFL Draft
Player Overview:
Gerald Small was a standout defensive back from the University of Miami, showcasing impressive skills and athleticism throughout his college career. Known for his speed, agility, and ball-hawking abilities, Small emerged as one of the top defensive prospects leading into the 1978 NFL Draft.
College Stats:
- **Position:** Defensive Back
- **College:** University of Miami
- **Key Stats:**
- Interceptions: 8
- Tackles: 150+
- Passes Defended: 20+
Strengths:
- Speed and Agility: Small demonstrated exceptional speed that allowed him to cover ground quickly and keep up with fast receivers.
- Ball Skills: His ability to read the quarterback and jump routes made him a dangerous playmaker in the secondary.
- Physicality: Despite being a defensive back, Small was not afraid to step up and make tackles against the run.
- Leadership: Small was noted for his leadership qualities on and off the field, making him a valuable asset in the locker room.
Areas for Improvement:
- Consistency: While Small had some standout games, he needed to work on maintaining a high level of performance week in and week out.
- Coverage Techniques: Improving his techniques in man-to-man coverage would elevate his game to the next level.
- Injury Concerns: There were some questions regarding his durability, as he had dealt with minor injuries during his college career.
Overall Assessment:
Gerald Small was viewed as a promising prospect with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of speed, ball skills, and physical play made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their secondary. While he had areas to refine, his upside was significant, and he was projected to be selected in the early rounds of the draft.