2016 NFL Draft: early look at Boise State’s Kamalei Correa
By Jon Dove
Boise State’s Kamalei Correa is an emerging 2016 NFL Draft prospect who is quickly making a name for himself.
Correa is an under-sized edge rusher who knows how to get after the quarterback. The 2016 NFL Draft doesn’t have a strong group of pass rushers which means a player like Correa could move up boards. There’s always a high value placed on the ability generate pressure.
Correa is a good athlete who features an explosive burst, balance and change of direction ability. His athleticism makes him a versatile defender capable of coming off the edge and dropping in coverage. This is important because Correa’s lack of size means he’s likely to play linebacker at the next level.
His versatility also extends to his ability to play the run. Correa is committed to playing with leverage and using his hands to set the edge. He shows surprising upper body strength that allows him to disengage and toss blockers.
This clip shows Correa taking on two blockers, disengaging and working towards the football:
Correa’s versatility is important to his draft stock, but it’s his pass-rush ability that gives him value. This is a savvy player who can use both speed and power moves. His commitment to using inside hands allows him to deliver a jolt and knock blockers off balance.
Most offensive linemen aren’t expecting a speed player like Correa to feature such a solid power move.
He also uses his change of direction ability and lateral quickness to slip past blockers. This clip shows Correa getting the blocker’s weight headed in one direction and then adjusting to the inside:
There will always be a market for defenders like Correa who can make plays in the backfield. However, his lack of size and bulk will limit the teams interested in his services. It’s unlikely a team running a 4-3 defense will grade him out high as a defensive end.
Current Draft Position: 2nd Round