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Don Coleman (College Stats) - 1980 NFL Draft Pick #197 by DEN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Don Coleman - 1980 NFL Draft

Player Overview:
Don Coleman was a standout player during his college career, showcasing significant skills and attributes that caught the attention of NFL scouts leading up to the 1980 NFL Draft. College Stats:
- Position: Wide Receiver - College: University of California - Key Stats:

• Receptions: 78
• Receiving Yards: 1,200
• Touchdowns: 9
• Average Yards per Reception: 15.4

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Coleman demonstrated exceptional speed, allowing him to stretch the field and create separation from defensive backs.
• Route Running: Known for his crisp and precise route running, Coleman was adept at finding soft spots in zone coverage.
• Hands: He possessed reliable hands, rarely dropping passes and consistently making contested catches.
• Football IQ: His understanding of the game allowed him to read defenses effectively and make quick decisions on the field.

Areas for Improvement:

• Physicality: While Coleman had speed, he needed to improve his ability to handle press coverage from more physical cornerbacks at the NFL level.
• Blocking: His blocking skills were considered average, and he would need to develop this aspect of his game to contribute in the run game.

Overall Projection:
Don Coleman was projected as a mid-round pick in the 1980 NFL Draft due to his potential and playmaking abilities. Scouts believed he could develop into a reliable target for an NFL quarterback, especially in offenses that emphasized passing. Conclusion:
With his impressive college stats and a skill set that fit well with the evolving NFL landscape, Don Coleman was regarded as a promising prospect. Teams were eager to see how his game would translate to the professional level, making him a player to watch during the draft process.