Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Dave Simmons (College Stats) - 1979 NFL Draft Pick #153 by GB

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Dave Simmons - 1979 NFL Draft

College: University of Missouri
Position: Linebacker

Overview

Dave Simmons was regarded as one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 1979 NFL Draft. His standout collegiate career at the University of Missouri showcased his athleticism, intelligence on the field, and ability to read plays. Simmons was known for his tackling ability, leadership skills, and versatility, making him a valuable asset for any NFL team.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Simmons demonstrated impressive speed for a linebacker, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make plays all over the field.
• Football IQ: His understanding of the game was evident in his ability to diagnose plays and react accordingly, often putting him a step ahead of the offense.
• Tackling Technique: Simmons was known for his solid tackling form, rarely missing opportunities to bring down ball carriers.
• Leadership: As a team captain, he displayed strong leadership qualities that would translate well to the professional level.
• Versatility: Capable of playing multiple linebacker positions, Simmons could adapt to different defensive schemes.

Weaknesses

• Injury History: Concerns about past injuries could raise red flags for some teams regarding his long-term durability.
• Size: At 6'1" and 220 lbs, some scouts questioned whether he had the size to compete effectively at the professional level against larger opponents.

Projected Draft Position

Dave Simmons was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1979 NFL Draft, with the potential for teams to reach for him earlier based on his impressive college performance and upside as a professional player.

Conclusion

Simmons was viewed as a player with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of speed, football intelligence, and leadership made him a desirable prospect for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps. As the draft approached, teams would weigh his strengths against concerns about his size and injury history, ultimately influencing his selection in the draft.