2015 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Eric Kendricks

Oct 25, 2014; Boulder, CO, USA; Colorado Buffaloes tailback Tony Jones (26) is tackled by UCLA Bruins linebacker Eric Kendricks (6) in the third quarter at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Byron Hetzler-USA TODAY Sports

Scout’s Take

Strengths: Rob Rang and Dane Brugler of CBSSports said of Kendricks’ strengths, “Like his brother Mychal, (Eagles) Eric is instinctive, aggressive and a considerably more explosive hitter than his frame would suggest. He closes quickly and with force, leading to some emphatic take-downs. Kenricks’ athleticism and awareness makes him effective in coverage.”

 Lance Zlerlein of NFL.com said of his strengths, “Confident with a downhill, attacking mindset. Good feet to slide, follow and burst to developing run plays. Can turn and chase sideline to sideline. Diagnoses quickly and attacks the run fits while avoiding blockers. Outstanding changing hips and changing direction. Exhibits good play speed and is able to cover man-to-man in space.”

Weaknesses: Rang and Brugler said of his weaknesses, “Scouts want to see him improve in coverage as he tends to be too hands-on and he needs more control of his momentum on tackle attempts to better bread down.”

Zlerlein said of his weaknesses, “Despite the high tackling numbers, doesn’t meet the ball carrier behind the line of scrimmage as much as he could. Can use more weight on his frame. Will drop his head at times when meeting the ball carrier in the hole. Wasn’t much of a factor as a blitzer.

Next: My Take