Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Rick Sanford (College Stats) - 1979 NFL Draft Pick #25 by NE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Rick Sanford

Position: Cornerback
College: University of Florida

Overview

Rick Sanford was a standout cornerback at the University of Florida, showcasing impressive skills that caught the attention of NFL scouts leading up to the 1979 NFL Draft. Known for his speed, agility, and ball-hawking ability, Sanford was a key player in the Gators' secondary.

Strengths

• Speed: Sanford possesses excellent straight-line speed, making him a formidable opponent in one-on-one coverage situations.
• Coverage Skills: He has demonstrated an ability to read quarterbacks and anticipate throws, which enabled him to make crucial interceptions during college games.
• Physicality: Despite being a cornerback, Sanford is not afraid to engage in run support, showcasing his toughness and willingness to tackle.
• Football IQ: He has a good understanding of the game, which allows him to be in the right position to make plays.

Weaknesses

• Size: At 5'10", Sanford may be considered undersized for the cornerback position in the NFL, which could limit his effectiveness against larger receivers.
• Consistency: While he has shown flashes of brilliance, there were moments during his college career when he struggled with consistency in his play.

Projected Draft Position

Rick Sanford was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1979 NFL Draft, with teams looking for a talented cornerback to bolster their defensive backfield.

Conclusion

With his blend of speed, coverage ability, and physical play, Rick Sanford was a highly regarded prospect entering the 1979 NFL Draft. Teams were eager to see how his skills would translate to the professional level as they looked for a player capable of making an immediate impact on their defense.