Ht: 6-3 Wt: 243 40: 4.58
Strengths: Elite instincts; is always around the football. He has natural talent. Very experienced in dropping into coverage (mainly zone coverage). A very athletic and good overall football player. Good speed. Has terrific awareness; able to understand and break down plays very quickly. Has a high motor. Very solid tackler; explodes into tackles. When he reads the play, he flies to the ball. Able to stand up bigger linemen, locate the football and make the tackle. Uses his hands well to break free from blockers. Very strong, plays with power. Aggressive player. Very competitive. Obvious leader of the defense. Very experienced. Immediate starter. Safe pick.
Weaknesses: I would like to see him add more weight without losing any speed. He is aggressive (which is a good thing) but he is often too aggressive; which leads him to often over pursue plays.
Summary: Luke Kuechly is the top linebacker in this draft. He has some of the best instincts I've seen in a college prospect. He can recognize and react to plays so quickly. He is also a very athletic young man and he proved that at the combine. He's got a high motor, is a solid tackler and will be a great leader for any defense. I see him being a top 15 lock this April.
Draft Projection: Top 15
