Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Jeff Rutledge (College Stats) - 1979 NFL Draft Pick #246 by RAM

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Jeff Rutledge - 1979 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Jeff Rutledge
• Position: Quarterback
• College: University of Alabama

Overview:

Jeff Rutledge was a highly regarded quarterback coming out of the University of Alabama, known for his leadership on the field and his ability to perform under pressure. Playing under the legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant, Rutledge developed skills that would make him a viable candidate in the NFL Draft.

Strengths:

• Leadership: Rutledge demonstrated strong leadership qualities during his tenure at Alabama, guiding the team to significant victories.
• Experience: Having played in a pro-style offense, Rutledge was well-prepared for the complexities of the NFL.
• Arm Strength: He possessed a strong arm, allowing him to make deep throws and fit the ball into tight windows.
• Mobility: Rutledge was mobile enough to evade pressure, making him a dual-threat option.

Weaknesses:

• Consistency: While Rutledge showed flashes of brilliance, he also struggled with consistency at times, particularly in high-stakes situations.
• Decision-Making: There were concerns regarding his ability to read defenses quickly and make the best decisions under pressure.
• Injury History: Some scouts noted that Rutledge had faced injury issues during college, raising concerns about his durability at the professional level.

Projected Draft Round:

Most analysts projected Rutledge to be selected in the mid-to-late rounds of the 1979 NFL Draft, as teams sought to bolster their quarterback depth with a player who had a strong collegiate background and the potential for growth in the professional ranks.

Conclusion:

Jeff Rutledge was viewed as a solid prospect who could develop into a competent NFL quarterback with the right coaching and support. His college experience at Alabama and the skills he displayed made him a name to watch during the draft process.