2015 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Hau’oli Kikaha

Nov 29, 2013; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive end Hau

My Take

Strengths: He’s not a Jadeveon Clowney type of physical freak but knows how to get to the quarterback. But knowing how to do something is more valuable than physical tools and he has versatility. He lines up at defensive tackle, end, outside linebacker and I would even try him at inside linebacker.

He has good burst off the edge but the key for him is is hand-fighting technique and hand speed. He also has an assortment of pass-rush moves including a spin-move,  leading to his production. I disagree with Zlerlien’s take on his run defense as he consistently holds the point of attack, even as a defensive tackle and puts guards on their butts when they pull to meet him in the hole.

Weeknesses: I have no choice but to agree about his struggles in coverage because all I ever saw him do on tape is drop into a zone at times. He was never asked to do much in the way of coverage at Washington because 2014 was his first year at 3-4 outside linebacker. And having to torn ACLs would make any personnel person throw up a red flag and ask for medicals.

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