Kendell Beckwith, LB , LSU: 2017 NFL Draft Scouting Report
The quality of players that are distributed to the league from Louisiana State University over the years have been of great value. From Arizona’s Tyrann Mathieu to Tampa Bay’s Kwon Alexander, the defensive side of the ball in particular has consistently churned out premium talent. The trend will continue in near future as strong safety Jamal Adams and defensive end Arden Key two prime candidates to be coveted in the NFL draft circles in the near future.
One other name to toss out there is Kendell Beckwith. The middle linebacker has swallowed up opposing ball carriers and is a staple in the middle of LSU’s defense. With the 2017 NFL Draft fast approaching, here is the official scouting report on the thumping linebacker.
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Measurables
Height: 6’2
Weight: 252 lbs
Strengths: A beacon of productivity with 150 total tackles the past two seasons (77 in 2014, 73 in 2015) along with 17.5 tackles for loss combined…..NFL size with a sturdy 252 pound frame……Three-year starter……Possesses the strength to engage and disengage with linemen……Sound tackler, able to utilize frame while wrapping up…..Possesses fundamental tools such as playing low consistently…..Patient in run support to filter through linemen in search of ball-carrier….Dependable motor.
Weaknesses: Tends to be slow-footed in play diagnosis, reaction time is half-step behind…..Pass coverage is a real question mark…..Stiff hips in coverage…..Play speed definitely needs to quicken at the next level…..Doesn’t have the makeup of a sideline-to-sideline linebacker.
Bottom line: LSU has been consistently producing defensive stalwarts over the years. Their track record is impressive and will continue with Beckwith and a number of his teammates. Speaking on Beckwith in particular, studying his tape, it’s tough to see him as a three-down linebacker in the NFL. Of course, things can change during this 2016 season and may very well see a more fluid defender in Beckwith. As of now, Beckwith has the outlook of a two-down backer with the likelihood of being rarely used in pass coverage. Even with that drawback, depending on system, Beckwith is a a solid third or fourth rounder currently and may be a better fit in a 3-4 system.