Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Rodney Bailey (Ohio St.) - 2001 NFL Draft Pick #181 by PIT

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Rodney Bailey (2001 NFL Draft)

College: Ohio State

Position: Defensive End

Height/Weight: 6'3" / 250 lbs

Strengths:

• Versatile Player: Rodney Bailey showcased the ability to play both defensive end and tackle, making him a valuable asset for different defensive schemes.
• Strong Pass Rusher: Known for his quick first step and ability to pressure the quarterback, Bailey was a reliable pass rusher during his college career.
• High Motor: Bailey consistently displayed a relentless work ethic on the field, chasing down plays and making tackles all over the field.
• Experience in Big Games: Having played for a prestigious program like Ohio State, Bailey was well-prepared for the pressures of the NFL.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistency: At times, Bailey struggled with consistency in his performance, which raised concerns about his ability to maintain high levels of play in the NFL.
• Size and Strength: While he had good speed, scouts questioned whether he had the bulk to hold up against larger NFL offensive linemen.
• Technique: Bailey needed to refine his technique, particularly in his hand usage and disengagement from blockers.

Overall Assessment:

Rodney Bailey was viewed as a solid prospect heading into the 2001 NFL Draft. His combination of speed and agility made him an intriguing option for teams looking for a dynamic pass rusher. However, concerns about his size and consistency meant that he would need to prove himself at the professional level to fully realize his potential.

Scouts believed that with the right coaching and development, Bailey could become a productive player in the league, particularly as a situational pass rusher in a 4-3 defense.