2016 NFL Draft: Utah State’s Kyler Fackrell 2016 Scouting Report

Sep 11, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes running back Devontae Booker (23) carries the ball as Utah State Aggies linebacker Kyler Fackrell (9) attempts to make the tackle during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Utah won 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes running back Devontae Booker (23) carries the ball as Utah State Aggies linebacker Kyler Fackrell (9) attempts to make the tackle during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Utah won 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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Utah State’s Kyler Fackrell 2016 Scouting Report.

Kyler Fackrell is an experienced and highly-productive outside linebacker prospect. He was on the draft radar heading into the 2014 season, but suffered a knee injury in the first game that forced him to miss the season. Thankfully, he returned to action this year and quickly got back to full speed.

This is a versatile defender who can rush the passer, drop back in coverage and set the edge against the run. His most valuable skill set is his ability to generate pressure thanks to his quick burst and suddenness.

Fackrell can attack the edge with speed or change direction with an inside counter move. This clip shows Fackrell using his suddenness to step in side and bring down the quarterback for a sack:

He also does a great job using his hands and arm length to keep the blocker off his frame. This helps him also deploy an effective power rush.

While his ability to get after the quarterback is important, Fackrell is a complete football player and capable of remaining on the field on every down. His best fit at the next level is as a 3-4 outside linebacker, but he does also have the skills needed to play all three linebacker spots in a 4-3.

This type of versatility makes him a fit for every team in the league and thus helping his overall draft stock.

The one concern with Fackrell is his age as he’ll turn 25 years old during his rookie season. Many of the prospects in the 2016 draft are closer to 22 than 25 years old.

Current Draft Position: Early 2nd Round