Keith Gary () - 1981 NFL Draft Pick #17 by PIT
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Keith Gary - 1981 NFL Draft
Player Profile: Keith Gary, Defensive End, University of Michigan
- Height: 6'4"
- Weight: 265 lbs
- College Experience: 4 years at the University of Michigan
Strengths:
- Versatile Pass Rusher: Gary demonstrated excellent athleticism and quickness off the line of scrimmage, making him a formidable pass rusher.
- Strong against the Run: With his size and strength, he was adept at shedding blocks and stopping the run, showcasing solid fundamentals and technique.
- Leadership Qualities: He was known as a team leader on and off the field, bringing a competitive spirit and work ethic that coaches valued.
Areas for Improvement:
- Consistency: At times, Gary struggled with consistency in his performance, which raised concerns about his ability to maintain high-level play throughout an entire game.
- Injury History: There were some concerns regarding his durability, as he had missed games in college due to injuries.
Draft Projections:
Keith Gary was projected to be a mid-to-late first round pick in the 1981 NFL Draft. Teams were attracted to his potential to develop into a dominant defensive end, especially in a 4-3 defensive scheme.
Potential NFL Fit:
- Teams needing a strong edge rusher and run stopper would find Gary to be an appealing option.
- His ability to play both defensive end and defensive tackle would provide added versatility for any defensive scheme.
Keith Gary was seen as a promising prospect with the potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level.