Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Waddell Kelly () - 1983 NFL Draft Pick #319 by NE

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Waddell Kelly (1983 NFL Draft)

Position: Linebacker
College: University of Southern California (USC)

Overview

Waddell Kelly was a standout linebacker at USC, known for his athleticism, leadership, and ability to read plays. With a strong collegiate career behind him, he was considered one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 1983 NFL Draft.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Kelly showcased exceptional speed, allowing him to cover ground quickly and pursue ball carriers effectively.
• Football IQ: He had a great understanding of defensive schemes and could anticipate plays, making him a valuable asset on the field.
• Tackling Skills: Known for his hard-hitting style, Kelly was a sure tackler who rarely missed opportunities to bring down opponents.
• Leadership: As a captain at USC, he demonstrated strong leadership qualities and the ability to motivate teammates.

Areas for Improvement

• Injury Concerns: Throughout his college career, Kelly faced some minor injuries that raised questions about his durability at the professional level.
• Coverage Skills: While effective against the run, he needed to improve his pass coverage skills to match up against more athletic NFL tight ends and running backs.

Projected Draft Position

Waddell Kelly was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 4th round of the 1983 NFL Draft. Teams were particularly interested in his potential impact on special teams and his ability to contribute as a starter within a few seasons.

Conclusion

Waddell Kelly was viewed as a high-upside prospect with the potential to excel in the NFL. His combination of speed, intelligence, and leadership made him an enticing option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps.