Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Gilbert Gardner (Purdue) - 2004 NFL Draft Pick #69 by IND

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Gilbert Gardner (2004 NFL Draft)

College: Purdue University

Position: Linebacker

Overview

Gilbert Gardner was a standout linebacker for the Purdue Boilermakers, known for his speed and athleticism on the field. His performance in college made him a notable prospect in the 2004 NFL Draft.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Gardner possessed impressive speed for a linebacker, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make plays in both run defense and pass coverage.
• Versatility: He was capable of playing multiple linebacker positions, showcasing his ability to adapt to various defensive schemes.
• Football Intelligence: Gardner demonstrated good instincts and awareness on the field, often being in the right place at the right time to make tackles or disrupt plays.
• Work Ethic: Coaches praised his dedication and commitment to improving his game, which boded well for his development at the professional level.

Weaknesses

• Size: At 6'1" and around 225 pounds, some scouts questioned whether he had the bulk to hold up against larger NFL running backs and tight ends.
• Injury History: Gardner had some injury concerns during his college career, which raised red flags about his durability.
• Consistency: While he showed flashes of brilliance, there were times when he struggled to maintain consistent performance throughout games.

Projected Draft Round

Most analysts projected Gilbert Gardner to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2004 NFL Draft, with some believing he could be a valuable special teams player and a rotational linebacker.

Conclusion

Gilbert Gardner was seen as an intriguing prospect with the potential to contribute at the next level. His combination of speed, intelligence, and versatility made him a player to watch in the 2004 NFL Draft.