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Kyle Fuller, C, Baylor: 2017 NFL Draft Scouting Report

By Erik Lambert

Dec 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Baylor Bears offensive lineman Kyle Fuller (55) against the Boise State Broncos during the Cactus Bowl at Chase Field. Baylor defeated Boise State 31-12. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Baylor Bears offensive lineman Kyle Fuller (55) against the Boise State Broncos during the Cactus Bowl at Chase Field. Baylor defeated Boise State 31-12. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Baylor Bears offensive lineman Kyle Fuller (55) against the Boise State Broncos during the Cactus Bowl at Chase Field. Baylor defeated Boise State 31-12. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Baylor Bears offensive lineman Kyle Fuller (55) against the Boise State Broncos during the Cactus Bowl at Chase Field. Baylor defeated Boise State 31-12. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Centers are a critical piece to offensive success. Does Kyle Fuller have the skill set to become one of the next good ones in the NFL?

Position:  C

School:  Baylor

Year:  Senior

Height:  6’5″

Weight:  307 lbs

STRENGTHS:

  • Size and strength are evident. Shows an ability to absorb bull rushes without losing much ground and also can generate movement in the running game.
  • When he uses his hands and arms to their fullest extent he shows a consistent ability to stonewall interior pass rushers, providing a clean pocket.

Notice the block he delivers at the 4:21 mark of this video. This is where his size, strength and proper technique all come into play and what could make him a starter in the NFL. He maintains good leverage and technique, getting the defensive tackle turned away from the play. Then he uses his massive frame to finish with a resounding pancake block, taking the guy out of the play entirely as the running back goes for a first down.

  • Low body anchor is solid, allowing him to get away with much of his technical issues through sheer strength and physical prowess.
  • Length is ideal for the center position, which is why his pass protection can be so overwhelmingly effective. Would be a tackle if he moved better.

WEAKNESSES:

  • Doesn’t really sustain blocks with any consistency or nasty. Seems to let up after making initial contact, making it easier for defenders to get back into the play.
  • Has a hard time blocking on the move. Often mistimes his angles and is forced reach his arms to prevent a defender getting around him. Will result in holding penalties.
  • Not overly athletic. While he can move a bit he does show the lateral quickness needed to execute pulling blocks like many NFL centers do.
  • Has a bad habit of using his shoulder and body to block at times rather than his hands. Will make him susceptible to swim and spin moves quite often.
  • Height can be a detriment at center if he doesn’t learn to play with consistent leverage. Odds are he’ll see plenty of short but strong interior pass rushers.

Pro Comparison:  Rodney Hudson

Fuller is taller and longer than the Oakland Raiders starter but the two share a lot in terms of what they can do. Hudson is particularly good in pass protection, giving little ground and providing a clean pocket for Derek Carr. He also can create running lanes with nice power. However, he’s not overly good when asked to get out and move. Keep him in a phone booth area and he’s solid.

Projection:  5th round

Fuller is not the greatest athlete for this position and he also needs a lot of work with his technique and fundamentals. A project if ever there was one. That being said he has physical traits that can help him have success in the NFL. All he has to do is put in the work. If he finds the right offensive system to fit his skill set, he can become a starter.

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