Grade
91.0 ?4.58 SEC
Top Performer27 REPS
Top Performer38.0 INCH
Top Performer123.0 INCH
Top Performer6.92 SEC
Top Performer4.12 SEC
Top Performer11.43 SEC
Top Performer
Blue Star = Top Performer
- 6'3" Height
- 31" Arm Length
- 242LBS. Weight
- 9 3/4" Hands
Overview
Kuechly had one of the most productive careers, in terms of tackles, in recent memory for a collegiate linebacker. Kuechly blew away the competition as the top tackler in the nation with a jaw-dropping 191 total. Many knock that most of his plays were downfield tackles and not "influential" enough, but 12 tackles for loss is a testament to his overall ability and instincts to get in the backfield and disrupt plays. He is more of an athlete than given credit for and has simply been a machine throughout his college career. Kuechly has all the tools to be an immediate starter in the NFL and shore up the middle of an entire defense.
Analysis
Weaknesses
The major knock on Kuechly is that he had a lot of "inflated" tackle production throughout his career, the idea being that he is indeed a superb tackler but most of those tackles came 5 to 8 yards downfield in pursuit. He didn't get up into the line of scrimmage to make powerful, impactful plays much, and won't be relied upon as a pass rusher at the next level and is strictly a tackling, sideline-to-sideline backer.
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| Grade | Title | Draft (Round) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 96-100 | Future Hall of Famer | Top Pick | A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played |
| 85-95 | Immediate Starter | 1st | An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter). |
| 70-84 | Eventual Starter | 2nd-3rd | A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position. |
| 50-69 | Draftable Player | 4th-7th | A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential. |
| 20-49 | Free Agent | UDFA | A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body. |
