Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Brian Simmons (North Carolina) - 1998 NFL Draft Pick #17 by CIN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Brian Simmons - 1998 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Brian Simmons
• College: University of North Carolina
• Position: Linebacker
• Height: 6'2"
• Weight: 240 lbs

Strengths:

• Excellent athleticism and speed for his position, allowing him to cover ground quickly.
• Strong tackling ability, capable of bringing down ball carriers effectively.
• Displays good instincts on the field, reading plays and reacting accordingly.
• Versatile player who can drop back into coverage or rush the passer when needed.
• Leadership qualities, having been a captain at North Carolina, bringing experience and poise to the defense.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistency in his play at times, particularly in tackling fundamentals.
• Needs to improve his pass-coverage skills to be more effective in a zone scheme.
• Could benefit from refining his technique in shedding blocks against larger offensive linemen.

Draft Projection:

• Expected to be selected in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft, possibly within the top 15 picks.
• Teams looking for an impact linebacker to bolster their defense will likely target Simmons.

Overall Analysis:

Brian Simmons is regarded as one of the top linebacker prospects in the 1998 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and football intelligence makes him an attractive option for teams in need of defensive upgrades. While he has areas to improve upon, his potential to become a standout NFL linebacker is evident, making him a valuable asset for any franchise.