Linebacker
No. 10
Michigan State
"He pulled down three interceptions last season, high for a linebacker. An All-American at Michigan, he won the Maxwell Trophy. The St. Louis Cardinals wanted to sign him as pitcher, but he turned to pro football, where his career has been nagged by injuries."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976
"The No. 2 draft choice of the Giants in 1973 after an All-American career at Michigan State, Brad was plagued by nagging injuries all through his rookie year and consequently appeared in only five games. Initially, he reported to training camp with a foot injury, and after overcoming that problem suffered a series of deep groin pulls which inhibited his progress.
In 1974, Brad was strictly a linebacker after those earlier trials at defensive back, linebacker and tight end and won a starting job at the weak side. He did a fine job, coming up with two interceptions for 22 yards, and also recovered two fumbles. He missed several games with injuries, but his progress was solid.
Then last year, working at the strong side, Brad hit his peak. Playing all 14 games, he rated solidly not only against the run but in his range on pass coverage. He upped his interceptions total to three, recovered a fumble and blocked two field goal attempts. Brad's potential is unlimited. He can also kick off and is a solid special teams player, too.
A unanimous All-American in college where he was a monster man defensive back, Brad also won the Maxwell Trophy his senior year. He had 14 career interceptions and returned two for touchdowns, kicked off, and had 84 tackles his senior year. He also lettered in basketball and in baseball and had a big bonus offer in baseball from the St. Louis Cardinals as a pitcher.
Brad Alan Van Pelt was born in Owosso, Michigan and played all sports at Owosso High School before heading to Michigan State. He raises St. Bernard puppies and is a fine cribbage player. He still lives in his hometown during the off-seasons."
-1976 New York Giants Media Guide
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