Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

LaRue Harrington () - 1980 NFL Draft Pick #151 by SDG

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Pre-Draft Analysis for LaRue Harrington (1980 NFL Draft)

College: University of Washington

Position: Linebacker

Overview

LaRue Harrington was a standout linebacker at the University of Washington, known for his athleticism, intelligence on the field, and ability to read plays. His performance in college made him a highly regarded prospect heading into the 1980 NFL Draft.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Harrington exhibited impressive speed and lateral movement, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make plays all over the field.
• Tackling Ability: He was known for his sure tackling, often wrapping up opponents effectively and minimizing yards after contact.
• Football IQ: LaRue demonstrated a deep understanding of defensive schemes, often making adjustments pre-snap and reading opposing offenses well.
• Leadership: As a captain in college, he showed strong leadership qualities, motivating teammates and commanding respect on the field.

Weaknesses

• Size Concerns: At 6'1" and around 225 pounds, some scouts questioned whether he had the size to compete effectively against larger NFL running backs and tight ends.
• Injury History: Harrington had a few injury concerns during his college career, which raised red flags for some teams about his durability.

Projected Draft Position

LaRue Harrington was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1980 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, intelligence, and leadership made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps.

Conclusion

Harrington was considered a promising prospect with the potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level. Teams valued his versatility and ability to adapt to different defensive schemes, making him a desirable pick in the early rounds of the draft.