2016 NFL Draft Profile: Ka’imi Fairbairn of UCLA
Go Joe Bruin takes a look at former UCLA kicker Ka’Imi Fairbairn as he looks to have his name called in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Ka’Imi Fairbairn #15-UCLA
Kailua, HI
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The Upside
Deadly accurate inside of 40 yards and began to expand his range and accuracy from beyond 50 in 2015 demonstrating to me that he is beginning to perfect his craft. Very strong leg capable of manning the kickoff duties. Four year kicker for the Bruins.
The Improvements Needed
Can be shaky from beyond 45 yards with all of his misses in 2015 coming from beyond 40 yards. Has not been tested by kicking in the elements. 3 of the 4 misses were in crucial moments late in the game.
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Vital Stats
Position-Place Kicker
Height-5’11
Weight-183lbs
Arm Length- 31 ¼”
Hand Size-9 ¼”
Combine Stats
Grade-5.25
Bench-DNP
40-DNP
Vert- DNP
Broad Jump- DNP
2015 Stats
20-24 on field goals with a UCLA record 60 yard field goal against Cal. 72% touchback rate from 2014-2015. No missed extra points in 2015. Lou Groza Award winner.
NFL Draft Projections
NFL.com-Round 6 Selection #184, New York Giants
Final Analysis
Fairbairn has been up and down during his four years at UCLA but showed massive improvement in 2015 hopefully meaning that upward trend will continue.
Additionally with the new rule changes in the NFL, teams may not ask him to kick touchbacks but instead have the ball die as close to the goal line as possible meaning he can save his booming leg for long tries. UCLA should continue to supply the NFL with kickers when he is drafted.
Next: Sports Illustrated Has 3 Bruins Going In The First 3 Rounds
Final Grade: 6th round.