Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Rodney Parker (College Stats) - 1978 NFL Draft Pick #152 by ATL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Rodney Parker - 1978 NFL Draft

College Stats:

• Position: Defensive Back
• College: University of Southern California (USC)
• Height: 6'0"
• Weight: 190 lbs
• Senior Year Stats:
  • Tackles: 65
  • Interceptions: 4
  • Pass Deflections: 10

Strengths:

• Versatile Athlete: Parker exhibited the ability to play multiple positions in the secondary, showcasing his adaptability and football IQ.
• Ball Skills: His knack for intercepting passes and deflecting throws highlighted his awareness and hands, making him a threat in the defensive backfield.
• Physical Play: Known for his aggressive tackling and willingness to support the run, Parker was viewed as a complete defensive back.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistency: At times, Parker struggled with consistency in coverage, particularly against top-tier wide receivers.
• Speed Concerns: While he was athletic, some scouts noted concerns about his straight-line speed, which could impact his ability to match up with faster receivers in the NFL.

Overall Assessment:

Rodney Parker was regarded as a solid prospect coming out of USC, with a good mix of skills that could translate well to the professional level. His experience in a competitive college environment and his ability to make plays on the ball made him an intriguing option for NFL teams looking to bolster their secondary. While there were some concerns regarding his speed and consistency, many scouts believed that with the right coaching, Parker could develop into a reliable starter in the league.