2016 NFL Draft: Clemson’s Kevin Dodd 2016 Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
Clemson’s Kevin Dodd 2016 Scouting Report
Kevin Dodd was one of the breakout stars from Clemson National Championship game against Alabama. He was a disruptive force making several plays behind the line of scrimmage. Dodd was so dominant that it made Alabama’s right tackle look like he didn’t belong on the field.
This is the type of potential Dodd brings to the table thanks to his size, quickness and high-motor. The clip below is an example of Dodd playing to the whistle. Note that the video highlights Dodd’s teammate Shaq Lawson. Dodd plays opposite Lawson and wears No. 98.
Dodd features an explosive burst off the line of scrimmage and the overall speed to gain the edge. His arm length allows him to create some space and keep the blockers off his frame. Dodd is also sudden enough to change direction and shoot inside.
He does need to get in the weight room and improve his upper body strength. Dodd likes to club the blocker but doesn’t have the power to knock them off balance. Increasing his strength will also help his bull rush which is already effective thanks to his use of leverage.
The concern with Dodd is that his a bit of a one-hit wonder only showing real consistency this season. In years past, he wasn’t nearly as productive but some of that absolutely has to do with the talent on Clemson’s roster.
Despite his strong season long numbers, Dodd needs to prove he can make an impact on a game to game basis. He’ll also need to show that his spike in production wasn’t because the extra attention paid to his teammate Shaq Lawson.
Current Draft Position: 2nd Round