2016 NFL Draft Scouting Reports: Alabama’s Ryan Kelly 2016 Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
Alabama’s Ryan Kelly 2016 Scouting Report
Ryan Kelly is a three-year starter from Alabama who faced elite competition in the SEC. He is a steady and reliable performer. Kelly uses his athleticism, arm length and football IQ to throw effective blocks. This isn’t an overly flashy prospect but is someone who can step in and make an immediate impact.
Kelly is a solid athlete who snap and steps in one quick motion. This allows him to get into proper position and reach the second level. His balance when working on the second level is outstanding and allows him to reach linebackers and deliver a proper block.
He understands the importance of using angles and proper footwork. This clip shows Kelly dropping his step to gain position and seal the defender from the play:
Kelly is quick enough to utilize a seal block, but also has the hip roll and strength to drive defenders off the line of scrimmage. He isn’t a road-grader type but works to gain leverage and inside hand placement.
This is someone who knows how to play a team game effectively working off double teams to make an extra block.
An area where he needs to show improvement is the consistency of his pad level. Kelly will play a little high from time to time. He needs to focus on staying low which might take a little more effort because of his height.
In the passing game, Kelly is able to anchor after contact thanks to his wide base and balance. He keeps his head on a swivel and makes quick adjustments.
This is a plug and play prospect who should be able to make an immediate impact. Kelly has the experience and skill set to have early success in his career.
Current Draft Position: 2nd Round