Eric Kendricks NFL Draft 2015: Scouting Report, Grade for Vikings Rookie

STRENGTHS

The best inside linebacker prospect in this draft, Eric Kendricks is athletic enough to be considered an outside linebacker in a 4-3 defense too. Turn on the Virginia game film and watch Kendricks turn into a wrecking ball, making plays from sideline to sideline—and with impressive lateral agility. Kendrick's footwork is very impressive, and you won't see false or timid steps against the run. He's a smart, fast-thinking linebacker with the football IQ to diagnose and attack. He's small but slips blocks well and has a nose for the ball. In coverage, he's fast enough to run with tight ends and backs. Few linebackers can match the production Kendricks put on tape at UCLA. Add in his character and leadership traits, and he looks like a safe pick.

WEAKNESSES

Some will want to compare Kendricks to his older brother Mychal, who plays for the Eagles, but he's not that explosive on film. Athletically, Kendricks did not test well at the combine, and that will factor into his draft stock, as teams want agile, flexible linebackers. Kendricks' film shows good range but not many impact plays at or behind the line of scrimmage. He's a bit of a catch tackler—meaning he waits for the ball-carrier to get to him.

2014 STATISTICS

Tackles                                Sacks                            Tackles for Loss

COMBINE RESULTS

40                 Bench Press               Vertical                Broad 

4.61s               19 Reps                     38.0"                   124.0" 

PRO COMPARISON: Bobby Wagner, Seattle Seahawks

A smaller, rangy inside linebacker with the feet and agility to play outside if needed, Kendricks compares very well to the size and play style of Bobby Wagner.

FINAL GRADE: 6.49/9.00 (Rookie Starter)