Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Kirk Gibson (College Stats) - 1979 NFL Draft Pick #173 by STL

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Kirk Gibson - 1979 NFL Draft

Player Overview:
Kirk Gibson, a standout wide receiver from Michigan State University, was known for his exceptional athleticism, strong hands, and ability to make contested catches. His performance in college garnered significant attention from NFL scouts and analysts leading up to the 1979 draft. College Stats:

• Receiving Yards: 1,831
• Receptions: 91
• Touchdowns: 17
• Average Yards per Reception: 20.1

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Gibson displayed excellent speed, making him a deep threat capable of stretching defenses.
• Size and Physicality: At 6'3", he had the size to compete against larger defensive backs, coupled with the strength to break tackles.
• Big Play Ability: His knack for making big plays in crucial moments made him a reliable target in high-pressure situations.
• Blocking Skills: Gibson was also a proficient blocker, contributing to the run game by sealing off defenders.

Areas for Improvement:

• Route Running: While effective, his route-running could be refined to create more separation from defenders.
• Consistency: There were moments of inconsistency in his performances, which raised concerns about his reliability as a go-to receiver.

Draft Projection:
Many analysts viewed Kirk Gibson as a potential first-round pick due to his combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability. However, teams needed to assess his overall consistency and fit within their offensive schemes. Conclusion:
Kirk Gibson's impressive college stats and physical attributes made him one of the most intriguing prospects in the 1979 NFL Draft. Teams were eager to see how his talents would translate to the professional level, and he was expected to make an immediate impact once drafted.