2021 NFL Draft prospects to watch: SEC
By Kyle Edmond
Tennessee – Kivon Bennett, Linebacker, Redshirt Junior
There’s no question that the best players to come out of Tennessee this coming season will be from the offensive line, but it can be difficult to illustrate that through statistics and writing. That’s much more of a “watch the tape” type analysis. So, when looking at the stats from last year, Kivon Bennett is one returning player that sticks out from the group.
During the 2019 season, Bennett led the Volunteers in quarterback hurries with nine. Additionally, he registered six tackles for loss, which were tied for second on the team, as well as two sacks. Although the numbers don’t jump off the page, he was still consistent when it came to forcing pressure in the backfield.
The big thing going for Bennett will be an increased role in the defense. A favorite to be a starter in the 2020 season, Bennett provides a force off the edge that can be groomed into a solid edge rusher at the next level, which teams are always looking to add.
If the stats continue to improve he could find himself in a similar role to that of Genard Avery or Chase Winovich, a rotational edge presence that can have an impact in a limited role.