Stevan Ridley (LSU) - 2011 NFL Draft Pick #73 by NE
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Stevan Ridley (2011 NFL Draft)
Player Profile:
- Name: Stevan Ridley
- College: Louisiana State University (LSU)
- Position: Running Back
- Height: 6'0"
- Weight: 225 lbs
Overview:
Stevan Ridley was a standout running back at LSU, known for his powerful running style, impressive speed, and ability to break tackles. He emerged as a key player in the LSU offense, showcasing his skills in both the running and passing game.
Strengths:
- Power Runner: Ridley has a physical running style that allows him to gain tough yards between the tackles.
- Vision: He displays good field vision, enabling him to find running lanes and make quick decisions.
- Ball Security: Ridley demonstrated a strong ability to protect the football, which is crucial for NFL running backs.
- Pass Protection: He showed willingness and capability in pass protection, an essential skill for running backs in the NFL.
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent Speed: While Ridley has decent speed, he may not consistently outrun defenders at the next level.
- Receiving Skills: His ability to catch the ball out of the backfield was not fully developed, raising questions about his versatility.
- Injury History: There were concerns regarding past injuries that could affect his durability in the NFL.
Projected Draft Round:
Ridley was projected to be selected in the 3rd to 4th round of the 2011 NFL Draft, with teams looking for a solid contributor in the running game.
Conclusion:
Stevan Ridley was viewed as a strong, physical running back with the potential to be a reliable starter in the NFL. His ability to thrive in a power-running scheme made him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their backfield in the 2011 draft.