David Lewis (College Stats) - 1984 NFL Draft Pick #20 by DET
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for David Lewis - 1984 NFL Draft
Position: Linebacker
College: University of Southern California (USC)
Overview
David Lewis was a standout linebacker at USC, known for his versatility, athleticism, and leadership on the field. As a key player for the Trojans, he showcased a combination of speed and strength that made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams.
Collegiate Performance
- Junior Year: Recorded 110 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks.
- Senior Year: Achieved 120 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks, earning All-American honors.
- Playmaking Ability: Known for his ability to read plays and disrupt the opposition's offense.
Strengths
- Speed and Agility: Exceptional lateral movement and quickness to pursue ball carriers.
- Tackling Technique: Strong fundamentals in tackling, often bringing down larger opponents.
- Football IQ: High awareness on the field, able to anticipate plays and react accordingly.
- Leadership: Served as a team captain, demonstrating strong leadership qualities both on and off the field.
Weaknesses
- Injury History: Had some minor injuries during college that raised concerns about durability.
- Coverage Skills: While solid, his pass coverage skills were considered a work in progress compared to other top linebackers.
Projected Draft Status
David Lewis was projected to be a mid-round selection in the 1984 NFL Draft. Teams appreciated his potential to develop into a starting linebacker but acknowledged the need for improvement in certain areas, particularly in pass coverage.
Conclusion
With a solid college career at USC and a reputation for being a reliable defender, David Lewis was poised to make an impact in the NFL. His combination of physical tools and football intelligence made him a valuable asset for any team looking to strengthen their linebacker corps.