Draft Nuggets 2015: Entry #17
By Jeff Bowers of youtube.com/TheSportsNarrative
Twitter: @sportsnarrative
Positional Breakdowns: Stand-Up Linebackers
In today’s NFL of hybrid defenses and specialization, I find it easier to define players by what they do on the field versus their tradition position title. Therefore, linebackers are split into just 2 categories: Edge rushers (and combined with Defensive Ends) and Stand-up Linebackers (that include both inside and outside LBs). The Cowboys made several moves to bolster their LB core, including the return of Lee and McClain and the addition of Rivers, Brinkley and Gachkar. However, all of their projected starters come with big injury questions so don’t be surprised to see a linebacker come off the board to Dallas whether it be early or late. Here is an overview of the linebackers available in this draft:
1. Eric Kendricks, UCLA, 6’0” 232lbs – Kendricks, the younger brother of Eagles LB Mychal, is a traditional “run-and-chase” linebacker who is at his best in space. A bit undersized and perhaps better cast as a WLB than in the middle, Kendricks uses his speed to diagnose and neutralize the offense but can struggle to take on bigger blockers. Durability could also be a concern throughout his career is asked to do too much.
Projection: 1st/2nd
2. Bernardrick McKinney, Miss St, 6’4” 246lbs – McKinney’s versatility could have him cast as a middle or strongside LB in a 4-3 or an inside or even outside LB in a 3-4. With plus football character, McKinney would be a welcome addition in whatever role he is asked to fill. Look for a team like Green Bay or New England who love hybrid type players to find a home for McKinney.
Projection: 1st/2nd
3. Stephone Anthony, Clemson, 6’2” 248lbs – Anthony came into the draft process as a bit of an unknown, but with outstanding performances at the Senior Bowl and the Combine put himself squarely in the top part of the linebacker class. Most of his flaws come from technique issues but his positive character should make him very coachable. Overall, Anthony can become a solid contributor in any defense and ultimately could emerge as a leader.
Projection: 2nd round
4. Denzel Perryman, Miami, 5’10” 236lbs – Perryman’s only true flaw is his lack of height, which sounds very reminiscent or a few other linebackers who went on to be superstars like Ray Lewis and Zach Thomas. And while Perryman may not live up to that high praise, I wouldn’t bet against him given his passion for the game. Best working inside, his lack of overall top speed could limit him in coverage.
Projection: 2nd round
5. Shaq Thompson, Washington, 6’0” 228lbs – Thompson is another playmaker whose biggest flaw is his measurables. But his is lack of girth, not height, causing many to question if he isn’t better cast as a strong safety, reminding me of Carolina LB Thomas Davis. In the Dallas scheme, Thompson would be a WLB similar to LaVonte David in Tampa Bay.
Projection: 2nd round
6. Paul Dawson, TCU, 6’0” 235lbs – By the game tape, Dawson is a playmaking OLB who thrived in the TCU 4-2-5 scheme and was constantly around the ball making him one of the top LB prospects in this draft. Buyer beware. Questions about attitude, desire and coachability persist around Dawson manifesting at the Combine where he looked slow, winded and uninterested. I’m not sure his talent is worth the potential headaches but someone will.
Projection: 2nd/3rd
7. Kwon Alexander, LSU, 6’1” 227lbs – Alexander is a weakside linebacker prospect who operates best in space. With plus coverage skills, he could begin his career as a nickel LB as he works on his fundamentals, which aren’t great. In time, Alexander could become a starter but is very raw and will need seasoning.
Projection: 3rd round
8. Jordan Hicks, Texas, 6’1” 236lbs – Hicks has a great linebacker mind, but his body may betray his NFL career. Struggling with injuries playing MLB at Texas, Hicks might be better served on the outside though not sure he has the speed for that. He is the kind of guy you always find at the bottom of the pile but can be overwhelmed 1-on-1. Hicks could be a great “super sub” like Anthony Hitchens but probably never a consistant starter.
Projection: 3rd/4th
9. Ramik Wilson, Georgia, 6’1” 237lbs – 4th round
10. Hayes Pullard, USC, 6’0” 240lbs – 4th round
11. Jake Ryan, Michigan, 6’2” 240lbs – 4th round
12. Mike Hull, Penn State, 5’11” 237lbs – 4th/5th
13. Taiwan Jones, Michigan State, 6’2” 245lbs – 4th/5th
14. Zack Hodges, Harvard, 6’2” 250lbs – 5th round
15. Bryce Hager, Baylore, 6’0” 234lbs – 5th round
16. Damien Wilson, Minnesota, 6’0” 245lbs – 5th round