RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Ian Gold (Michigan) - 2000 NFL Draft Pick #40 by DEN

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis: Ian Gold - 2000 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

  • Name: Ian Gold
  • Position: Linebacker
  • College: University of Michigan

Overview:

Ian Gold was regarded as one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 2000 NFL Draft. Known for his speed, agility, and football intelligence, Gold had a standout collegiate career at Michigan, where he made significant contributions to the team's defense.

Strengths:

  • Excellent athleticism and speed, allowing him to cover a lot of ground.
  • Strong tackling ability and physical play style.
  • Good instincts and awareness on the field, making him effective in reading plays.
  • Experience in a high-level college program, contributing to his readiness for the NFL.

Weaknesses:

  • Size may be a concern for some teams; he was considered undersized for a traditional linebacker role.
  • Needs to improve his ability to shed blocks against larger offensive linemen.
  • Inconsistent in coverage, which could limit his versatility in certain defensive schemes.

Draft Projection:

Gold was projected to be selected in the early to mid-rounds of the draft, with teams looking for an athletic linebacker who could contribute on special teams and in sub-packages. His performance at the NFL Combine and Pro Day would play a crucial role in solidifying his draft stock.

Conclusion:

Ian Gold was viewed as a promising prospect with the potential to develop into a starter at the professional level. His combination of speed and playmaking ability made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps.