Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Ricky Manning (UCLA) - 2003 NFL Draft Pick #82 by CAR

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Ricky Manning - 2003 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Ricky Manning Jr.
• Position: Cornerback
• College: UCLA

Overview:

Ricky Manning Jr. was a standout cornerback for the UCLA Bruins, known for his aggressive play and ability to make big plays. He gained significant attention during his college career, particularly during his junior season, where he showcased his skills against top-tier opponents.

Strengths:

• Ball Skills: Manning demonstrated excellent ball-hawking abilities, recording multiple interceptions during his collegiate career.
• Physicality: He was known for his physical style of play, which made him effective in both man and zone coverage.
• Experience: With three years as a starter, Manning brought considerable experience and maturity to the cornerback position.
• Work Ethic: Coaches praised his dedication and willingness to improve, making him a desirable candidate for NFL teams looking for a player with a strong work ethic.

Areas for Improvement:

• Speed: While Manning was competitive, some scouts noted that he lacked elite straight-line speed, which could be a concern against faster wide receivers in the NFL.
• Consistency: There were times when Manning would struggle with consistency in coverage, leading to blown assignments or missed tackles.

Projected Draft Position:

Ricky Manning was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2003 NFL Draft, with potential as a solid nickel cornerback or depth player for an NFL team. His college performance and physical attributes made him an intriguing prospect who could develop into a reliable contributor at the next level.

Conclusion:

Ricky Manning's combination of skills, experience, and physicality made him an appealing option for NFL teams looking to bolster their secondary. Teams that valued cornerbacks with a strong work ethic and the ability to make plays on the ball were likely to take a closer look at Manning during the draft process.