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Gary Gooden (College Stats) - 1989 NFL Draft Pick #235 by RAI

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Gary Gooden - 1989 NFL Draft

Player Overview:
Gary Gooden was a standout linebacker from the University of Maryland, showcasing impressive athleticism and football intelligence during his college career. His ability to read plays and make quick adjustments on the field made him a valuable asset to his college team. College Stats:

• Games Played: 36
• Tackles: 200
• Sacks: 15
• Interceptions: 3
• Forced Fumbles: 5

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Gooden displayed remarkable speed for a linebacker, making him effective in both pursuit and coverage.
• Football IQ: His ability to read offensive schemes allowed him to anticipate plays, resulting in numerous tackles for loss.
• Tackling Technique: Known for his solid tackling form, Gooden rarely missed tackles and was effective at bringing down ball carriers.
• Versatility: He demonstrated the ability to excel in multiple linebacker roles, making him a valuable option for teams seeking flexibility.

Weaknesses:

• Size: At 6'1" and 225 pounds, some scouts worried about his size compared to other linebackers in the draft.
• Injury History: Gooden had a few minor injuries during his college career that raised concerns about his durability at the professional level.

Projected Draft Position:
Gooden was projected to be selected in the middle rounds of the draft, with potential to rise based on team needs and combine performance. His combination of speed, intelligence, and production made him an appealing prospect for several NFL teams. Conclusion:
Gary Gooden entered the 1989 NFL Draft as a promising linebacker with a strong college career. While there were concerns regarding his size and injury history, his skills and performance on the field positioned him as a player to watch come draft day.