Mel Bratton (College Stats) - 1989 NFL Draft Pick #180 by DEN
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Mel Bratton - 1989 NFL Draft
Player Profile: Mel Bratton, a standout running back from the University of Miami, was known for his versatility and explosive playmaking abilities. As a key contributor to the Hurricanes' offense, Bratton's college career showcased his skills in both rushing and receiving.
College Stats:
- Rushing Yards: 1,162 yards
- Rushing Touchdowns: 18 TDs
- Receiving Yards: 546 yards
- Receiving Touchdowns: 5 TDs
- All-Purpose Yards: 1,708 yards
Strengths:
- Speed and Agility: Bratton possessed exceptional speed and quickness, allowing him to evade defenders and break big plays.
- Pass-Catching Ability: His skills as a receiver out of the backfield made him a dual-threat, giving offensive coordinators multiple options.
- Blocking Skills: Demonstrated solid blocking techniques, which translated well to pass protection in the NFL.
- Football IQ: High understanding of the game, able to read defenses and make quick decisions.
Areas for Improvement:
- Injury Concerns: Had a history of injuries during college, raising questions about durability at the professional level.
- Consistency: While talented, at times struggled with maintaining consistent performances throughout the season.
Projected Draft Position:
Mel Bratton was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1989 NFL Draft, with potential to be a valuable asset for teams looking for a versatile running back.
Overall Assessment:
Bratton's combination of speed, skill, and versatility made him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams. With the right coaching and a focus on injury management, he had the potential to become a significant contributor in the league.