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Despite there being a chance UCLA Bruins inside linebacker Eric Kendricks is not available at the No. 30 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, he is exactly the type of player the Green Bay Packers need to select in the first round.
Last year, it was widely known that the Packersneeded to improve the safety position in the first round. Many, including myself, had Green Bay selecting Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, which is what Green Bay did. This year, the Packers are in a similar position, with the exception being inside linebacker is what the team desperately needs.
Unfortunately for Green Bay, this year’s crop of inside linebackers is far less talented than in years past. It is that reason why it is imperative the Packers select one the first time they are on the clock during the draft.
Considering Green Bay ranked 20th in yards surrendered per carry (4.3), 23rd in run defense (119.9 yards per game) and 30th in rushing first downs given up (116) last season, it is clear stopping the run needs to be the team’s top priority in the offseason. Re-signing defensive linemen Letroy Guion and B.J. Raji is a step in the right direction, but acquiring a proven run stuffer to add to the linebacker corps would be the headline grabber.
I have discussed Kendricks extensively in the past as someone the Packers must zero in on. He attacks runners as if he exploded out of a cannon. He also closes in on the ball carrier and ends the play with a crushing blow. The combination of above-average strength, raw instincts, an elite quickness and an endless motor makes him a desirable player to have on the roster. He also has shown the ability to be very effective in dropping into coverage and he will get after the quarterback more often than not in pass-rushing situations.
The biggest issue the Packers may have with Kendricks is he has to use his agility to get around blockers, opposed to using strength to shed them, which is a possible deal breaker in a 3-4 defense. With that said, if Green Bay can implement a scheme that allows him to get after the ball carrier cleanly by using angles, they might just find themselves a Pro-Bowl caliber linebacker.
Kendricks led UCLA in tackles all three years as a starter. He is not going to shock anyone with his play, but he is the type of consistently efficient player the Packers need if they want to reach the Super Bowl.
Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
