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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Mike Blanton () - 1979 NFL Draft Pick #299 by MIA

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Mike Blanton (1979 NFL Draft)

Position: Linebacker
College: University of Texas at Austin

Overview:

Mike Blanton emerged as one of the standout linebackers during his college career at the University of Texas. Known for his versatility and strong football IQ, Blanton was a key defensive player for the Longhorns, displaying excellent tackling ability and leadership on the field.

Strengths:

  • Physicality: Blanton possesses a strong, athletic build that allows him to shed blocks and make tackles.
  • Tackling: He is known for his sure tackling and ability to bring down ball carriers effectively.
  • Football IQ: Displays a deep understanding of defensive schemes and the ability to read plays as they develop.
  • Versatility: Can play multiple linebacker positions, making him a valuable asset for defensive coordinators.
  • Leadership: Recognized as a leader on the field, he brings a competitive edge and motivation to his teammates.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Speed: While effective, his straight-line speed may limit him in coverage situations against faster receivers and tight ends.
  • Pass Coverage: Needs to improve his skills in pass coverage to become a more complete linebacker.

Draft Projection:

Blanton is projected to be selected in the 2nd to 4th round of the 1979 NFL Draft. His combination of physicality, experience, and leadership qualities makes him an appealing choice for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps.

Conclusion:

Mike Blanton is a solid linebacker prospect with the potential to contribute immediately at the professional level. Teams will be looking to capitalize on his strengths while helping him develop his skills in areas that need improvement.