Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Ryan Connelly (Wisconsin) - 2019 NFL Draft Pick #143 by NYG


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Ryan Connelly - 2019 NFL Draft

Ryan Connelly, a linebacker from the University of Wisconsin, entered the 2019 NFL Draft after a productive college career. Here’s a breakdown of his pre-draft analysis:

  • Position: Linebacker
  • College: University of Wisconsin
  • Height: 6'1"
  • Weight: 234 lbs
  • Class: Senior

Strengths:

  • Intelligent and Instinctive: Connelly displayed a strong understanding of the game, often reading plays quickly and reacting accordingly.
  • Solid Tackler: Known for his ability to wrap up and make tackles, he was effective both in one-on-one situations and when taking on blockers.
  • Coverage Skills: He showed the capability to drop into coverage, displaying good awareness and the ability to defend against tight ends and running backs.
  • Leadership Qualities: As a senior, Connelly was a leader on the field, demonstrating accountability and a strong work ethic that impressed coaches and teammates.

Weaknesses:

  • Speed Concerns: While he was effective in college, his straight-line speed raised questions about his ability to cover faster NFL players.
  • Injury History: Connelly dealt with some injuries during his college career that contributed to concerns about his durability at the next level.
  • Limited Experience in Pass Rush: Although he could rush the passer, he did not have extensive experience doing so at Wisconsin, which could limit his versatility in various defensive schemes.

Overall Assessment:

Ryan Connelly was viewed as a solid, if not spectacular, linebacker prospect who had the potential to contribute on special teams and develop into a reliable backup or rotational player in the NFL. His intelligence and tackling ability made him a desirable option for teams looking to add depth at the linebacker position.

Projected Round: 4th - 6th Round