Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Jonathan Vilma (Miami (FL)) - 2004 NFL Draft Pick #12 by NYJ

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Jonathan Vilma (2004 NFL Draft)

Jonathan Vilma, a standout linebacker from the University of Miami (FL), entered the 2004 NFL Draft with a solid reputation and a strong college career. Here are the key points from his pre-draft analysis:

• Position: Linebacker
• College: Miami (FL)
• Height: 6'1"
• Weight: 230 lbs
• 40-Yard Dash: 4.7 seconds

Strengths:

• Intelligence: Vilma was known for his football IQ, often making quick and effective decisions on the field.
• Versatility: He had the ability to play both inside and outside linebacker positions, showcasing his adaptability.
• Tackling Ability: His tackling technique was highly regarded, allowing him to bring down ball carriers effectively.
• Leadership: As a team captain at Miami, he demonstrated strong leadership qualities that teams valued.

Areas for Improvement:

• Size: Some scouts noted that Vilma's size could be a concern in the NFL, particularly in tackling power running backs.
• Speed: While he was quick, there were questions about whether he could keep up with faster NFL offenses.

Overall Assessment:

Jonathan Vilma was projected to be a first-round pick in the 2004 NFL Draft. His combination of intelligence, leadership, and tackling ability made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps. Many analysts believed he would develop into a solid starter and potential defensive leader in the NFL.