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Garland Rivers (College Stats) - 1987 NFL Draft Pick #92 by DET

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Garland Rivers - 1987 NFL Draft

College: University of Notre Dame
Position: Defensive Back

Overview:

Garland Rivers was a standout defensive back at Notre Dame, known for his exceptional athleticism and playmaking ability. As the 1987 NFL Draft approached, Rivers was considered one of the top defensive prospects due to his combination of size, speed, and football intelligence.

Key Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Rivers possessed impressive straight-line speed and quick lateral movements, allowing him to cover ground quickly and stay with receivers.
• Ball Skills: His ability to track the ball in the air and make interceptions made him a dangerous player in the secondary.
• Tackling Ability: Rivers was known for his physicality and willingness to tackle, making him a reliable run defender as well.
• Football IQ: He demonstrated a strong understanding of offensive schemes and was able to anticipate plays, which often led to big defensive stops.

Areas for Improvement:

• Consistency: While Rivers showed flashes of brilliance, there were concerns about his consistency in performances, particularly in high-pressure situations.
• Fundamentals: Some scouts noted that he needed to refine his techniques, especially in press coverage and footwork.

Projected Draft Position:

There was significant buzz around Rivers leading up to the draft, with many analysts projecting him to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round due to his potential and the need for defensive backs in the league at that time.

Conclusion:

Garland Rivers was regarded as a player with considerable upside. His athletic attributes and experience at a prestigious program like Notre Dame made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their secondary. With the right coaching and development, Rivers had the potential to become a key contributor at the professional level.