Bill Whitaker (College Stats) - 1981 NFL Draft Pick #172 by GB
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Bill Whitaker (1981 NFL Draft)
Player Profile:
- Name: Bill Whitaker
- Position: Linebacker
- College: University of Southern California (USC)
College Stats:
- Games Played: 34
- Tackles: 150
- Sacks: 10
- Interceptions: 3
Strengths:
- Whitaker showcased excellent speed and agility, making him a versatile linebacker capable of covering both run and pass plays effectively.
- His ability to read offenses and diagnose plays quickly was a significant asset, allowing him to make impactful tackles and interceptions.
- Whitaker's physicality and tackling technique made him a formidable presence on the field, often leading to game-changing plays.
Weaknesses:
- While he had impressive stats, there were concerns about his size compared to other linebackers in the draft, potentially limiting his effectiveness against larger opponents.
- Inconsistent performance in big games raised some doubts about his ability to perform under pressure.
Draft Projection:
- Bill Whitaker was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 1981 NFL Draft.
- Teams looking for a linebacker with potential to develop into a starting role would find Whitaker an appealing option.
Overall Assessment:
Bill Whitaker was regarded as a talented linebacker with the potential to make an impact at the professional level. His college career at USC showcased his ability to play at a high level, and while some concerns existed regarding his size and consistency, his athleticism and instincts made him a valuable prospect in the 1981 NFL Draft.