Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Danny Batten (South Dakota St.) - 2010 NFL Draft Pick #192 by BUF

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Danny Batten (2010 NFL Draft)

College: South Dakota State

Overview

Danny Batten was a standout defensive player at South Dakota State University, known for his versatility and tenacity on the field. As a linebacker, he showcased a solid combination of size, speed, and football IQ, making him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams during the 2010 Draft.

Strengths

• Versatility: Batten played multiple linebacker positions in college, demonstrating his ability to adapt to various defensive schemes.
• Physicality: He was known for his aggressive tackling and ability to shed blocks, making him a reliable run defender.
• Intelligence: Batten exhibited a strong understanding of defensive concepts and was able to read plays effectively, allowing him to make impactful plays.
• Work Ethic: Coaches praised his dedication and willingness to learn, indicating a player who would continue to improve at the professional level.

Weaknesses

• Speed: While Batten had decent speed for a linebacker, he was not considered elite, which could affect his coverage abilities against faster offensive players.
• Injury History: There were concerns about his durability, as he had dealt with injuries during his college career that could raise red flags for NFL teams.
• Competition Level: Coming from a smaller school, there were questions about how well his skills would translate to the NFL, as he faced less competition than players from Power Five conferences.

Overall Assessment

As the 2010 NFL Draft approached, Danny Batten was viewed as a solid prospect with the potential to contribute as a rotational linebacker and special teams player. His work ethic and intelligence made him an appealing option for teams looking for depth at the linebacker position.

While he may not have been a first-round talent, many evaluators believed that Batten could find a role in the NFL, particularly for teams that valued versatility and strong defensive fundamentals.