Thursday, April 14, 2016

1976 Rookie Profile: Shafer Suggs

Cornerback
2nd Round
Ball State
"A basketball and football star at Ball State, he leaps 'to shake hands with God,' says one scout. The No. 2 draft pick, he could start from the opening game."

-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976

"Drafted second, Shafer's credentials include speed (4.5-4.6 in the 40), quick feet, good leaping ability and heavy hitting. Scouts like his polished style of play, and his athletic ability is unquestioned after starting three years in basketball and four in football. He was the first draft choice to sign a contract.
Suggs enjoyed solid performances in his 1975 postseason appearances, starting in the East-West Shrine Game and the Senior Bowl, and played in the 1976 College All-Star Game. He broke Terry Schmidt's (New Orleans Saints) interception record at Ball State with 14, including eight in 1974. He was named Mid-America Conference defensive player of the year (1975) and AP second-team All-America.
As a basketball player, Suggs averaged 10.7 points per game (719 points) and 7.9 rebounds (527). Coach Holtz rates him 'a super athlete and a winner' and his college coach, Dave McClain, compares him with Mike Sensibaugh and Jack Tatum who he coached at Ohio State. Shafer was the first Ball State player in 17 years to letter four times. At Elkhart Central High School in his hometown of Elkhart, Indiana, he was named all-state in football and basketball."

-1976 New York Jets Media Guide

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