2015 NFL Draft: Top 5 Linebackers
By John Tolis
Aug 30, 2014; Charlottesville, VA, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Eric Kendricks (6) lines up against the Virginia Cavaliers at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
4. Eric Kendricks, UCLA, ILB
Next we turn to the UCLA Bruin Eric Kendricks, the senior may be No .4 on the list, but is hands down the best inside linebacker coming into this draft. Kendricks’ blood is already playing in the NFL as his brother Mychal plays for the Philadelphia Eagles and it looks like he’ll be joining him. Kendricks is a stand out player in this year’s draft with his agility, flexibility and balance. Kendricks’ body may not be physical, but it sure is versatile. His quickness helps a team be effective in the coverage and makes for one talented pass rusher.
The downside to Kendricks is his frame, big with no length. When going one on one with his opponents, Kendricks is normally the one going down as he does his best avoiding blockers. His aggressiveness also pops out at you, but sometimes it’s too much for his own good. In 2012 however, Kendricks led the Pac-12 with 150 tackles. He also capped off his senior year as captain and led the Bruins with 106 tackles.
Any team that chooses Kendricks which will likely be in the early second round, will not go wrong. Kendricks’ quick instinct will work on the NFL field, wherever he’s drafted.
Next: 3. Eli Harold, Virginia, OLB