2016 NFL Draft Profile: Kenny Clark of UCLA
Go Joe Bruin profiles former UCLA defensive tackle Kenny Clark as he prepares for the NFL Draft.
2016 NFL Draft Profile – Kenny Clark #97 – UCLA
San Bernardino, CA
The Upside
Clark is exactly what you want in a defensive tackle. His wide frame allows him to anchor down and be stout in the run game.
Hard to move but is not merely a plugger as he demonstrates the ability to shed and chase down the line to make tackles in pursuit. Maintains a low center of gravity and will out leverage opposing linemen.
Can push the pocket in the passing game but has shown some pass rush moves including a powerful swim. Is a day one NFL ready player with his combination of size and strength. Is young and will continue to improve and bulk up with more coaching.
The Improvements needed
Despite being young may have already maxed out his frame. Has shorter arms and isn’t exactly a quick twitch athlete. Not a penetrating 3-technique but not a true nose tackle and will have trouble with double teams. Can occasionally run himself out of the play.
UCLA Bruins
Vital Stats
Position-Defensive Tackle
Height-6’3”
Weight-314lbs
Arm Length- 32’ 1/8”
Hand Size-10’ 1/2”
Combine Stats
Grade-5.98
Bench-29 reps
40-5.06 secs
Vert- 28.5”
Broad Jump- 102”
2015 Stats
75 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 5 passes batted down.
NFL Draft Projections
NFL.com- Round 2 Selection # 47 New Orleans Saints
Walterfootball.com-Round 2 Selection #43 Tennessee Titans
Final Analysis
Kenny Clark offers more than just a rotational defensive tackle and should have a long NFL career. He isn’t just a two down run stuffer and can really help a defense keep the same personnel on the field for all downs.
While in college Clark played like a man amongst boys but he shouldn’t expect the transition to the next level to be so easy. I see him fitting in hybrid schemes and can play as a 3 technique and nose tackle on occasion but will see his best success in a four man front.
Next: Sports Illustrated Predicts 3 Bruins Going in the First 3 Rounds of the NFL Draft
Final Grade: Early 2nd Round.