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Ronnie Lott HOF (College Stats) - 1981 NFL Draft Pick #8 by SF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Ronnie Lott - 1981 NFL Draft

College: University of Southern California (USC)
Position: Safety/Cornerback

College Career Overview

• Ronnie Lott played at USC from 1977 to 1980.
• He was a standout defensive player, known for his hard-hitting style and playmaking ability.
• During his college career, he was a key contributor to USC's defense, helping the Trojans win the national championship in 1978.
• His versatility allowed him to play both cornerback and safety, showcasing his skills in coverage and run support.

Strengths

• Intelligence: Lott demonstrated exceptional football intelligence, often reading plays before they developed.
• Physicality: Known for his aggressive tackling and willingness to play near the line of scrimmage.
• Speed: Possessed the speed necessary to cover wide receivers and make plays in the open field.
• Leadership: Recognized as a leader on the field, with a strong work ethic that inspired his teammates.

Concerns

• Injury History: Some concerns about his ability to remain healthy given his aggressive playing style.
• Transition to NFL: Questions about how his skills would translate to the professional level, especially against faster and stronger athletes.

Projected Draft Position

• Ronnie Lott was projected to be a high first-round pick in the 1981 NFL Draft.
• Teams were particularly interested in his ability to impact the game from the secondary position.

Conclusion

Ronnie Lott was highly regarded for his skills and potential impact in the NFL. His collegiate achievements and playing style made him one of the most sought-after defensive prospects leading into the 1981 draft.