Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Al Richardson () - 1980 NFL Draft Pick #201 by ATL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Al Richardson - 1980 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Al Richardson
• Position: Linebacker
• College: University of Miami

Overview:

Al Richardson was a standout linebacker at the University of Miami, known for his aggressive playing style and strong leadership qualities on the field. As a key defensive player, he made significant contributions to his college team and was considered one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 1980 NFL Draft.

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Possesses excellent speed for a linebacker, allowing him to cover ground quickly and pursue ball carriers effectively.
• Football IQ: Displays a strong understanding of the game, making him adept at reading plays and anticipating offensive strategies.
• Tackling Ability: Known for his hard-hitting style, Richardson excels in tackling and making key stops in critical situations.
• Leadership: Often seen as a leader on and off the field, he has the ability to motivate teammates and coordinate defensive strategies.

Areas for Improvement:

• Size: At 6'1" and 220 pounds, he may need to add bulk to compete at the professional level against larger running backs and tight ends.
• Coverage Skills: While strong against the run, there are concerns about his ability to cover receivers effectively in passing situations.

Projected Draft Position:

Al Richardson was expected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1980 NFL Draft, with teams valuing his athleticism and potential to develop into a starting linebacker.

Conclusion:

With his combination of physical attributes and football intelligence, Al Richardson was projected as a promising linebacker who could make an immediate impact in the NFL. His performance at the combine and subsequent workouts would be closely watched by NFL scouts.