Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Fred Small (College Stats) - 1986 NFL Draft Pick #241 by PIT

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Fred Small (1986 NFL Draft)

Position: Linebacker
College: University of Massachusetts

Player Overview

Fred Small emerged as a standout player during his college career at the University of Massachusetts. Known for his speed and tackling ability, Small was considered one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 1986 NFL Draft.

College Stats

• Tackles: 100+ in senior year
• Sacks: 5
• Interceptions: 3
• Forced Fumbles: 2

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Small was known for his quickness, allowing him to cover ground effectively and pursue ball carriers.
• Tackling Technique: He demonstrated solid tackling fundamentals, often bringing down opponents with efficiency.
• Pass Coverage: Small showcased the ability to drop back into coverage, making him versatile for defensive schemes.

Weaknesses

• Size: At 6'0", 220 lbs, there were concerns about his ability to handle larger, more physical running backs in the NFL.
• Inconsistent Play: Some scouts noted that Small had moments of brilliance but could also be prone to lapses in focus during games.

Projected Draft Round

Fred Small was projected to be a mid-round pick, with many analysts believing he would be selected in the 3rd or 4th round due to his potential and performance at the collegiate level.

Conclusion

Fred Small was viewed as a promising linebacker prospect with the potential to develop into a solid NFL player. His college career provided a strong foundation for his entry into professional football, and teams were eager to see how he would adapt to the next level.