VT vs. UK: 5 2020 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Belk Bowl

Kash Daniel has been an important piece in the middle of Bob Stoops’ defenses since stepping on campus four years ago. He has developed into a two-time captain and critical leader on the defensive side of the ball. Daniel was the fourth-leading tackler on the team with 50 total tackles in the regular season. He also accounted for four tackles for loss, three pass breakups, and one interception on the season.

Daniel doesn’t have the best size for an NFL linebacker at 6-foot-1 and 221 pounds. What compounds that lack of size is the fact he also lacks elite athleticism or strength to make up for it. He is an overall stiff athlete who struggles to get off blocks consistently. He does excel in the hustle, mental and physical toughness, and positive energy and effort.

Daniel will likely never be a starting linebacker at the next level due to his lack of good size, strength, or athleticism. But his character, toughness, and hustle should help him carve out a role on Special Teams. Even if he doesn’t make a lot of splash plays himself against Virginia Tech, you can count on him having a big role in Kentucky’s defensive success throughout the game as a leader.