One draft analyst thinks Kentucky has four future starters at the NFL combine
The NFL every year releases prospect profiles ahead of its draft combine, complete with grades indicating where players project at the next level and a list of their perceived strengths and weaknesses.
This year, draft analyst Lance Zierlein was responsible for all seven of the University of Kentucky prospects. Here’s a brief look at what he had to say about each (Online, click the player’s name for Zierlein’s complete assessment).
Yusuf Corker (DB)
Projection: “Average Backup Or Special-Teamer”
Analysis sample: “Corker is more than eager to help in the run game and he seems to relish contact. His angles to the ball, however, are inconsistent and he has too many tackle attempts slide from his grasp.”
Luke Fortner (OL)
Projection: “Will Eventually Be Average Starter”
Analysis sample: “He’s not a bad athlete but has issues timing his work-up blocks, which limits his second-level success at times. He can tune up the pass protection, but it’s good enough as a foundation right now. Fortner is adequate in some areas and good in others. He could become a scheme-flexible starter in time.”
Darian Kinnard (OL)
Projection: “Will Eventually Be Average Starter”
Analysis sample: “Kinnard possesses a thick-boned frame that is very girthy but well-proportioned. He’s not a bad athlete but faces limitations with lateral and recovery movements. A transition inside should allow for more advantageous positioning as both a drive blocker and in pass protection.”
Marquan McCall (DL)
Projection: “Candidate For Bottom Of Roster Or Practice Squad”
Analysis sample: “McCall’s size and strength are positive factors in challenging single blocks and double teams but he doesn’t play with enough leverage, body control or hand command to require game planning by the offense.”
Wan’Dale Robinson (WR)
Projection: “Will Eventually Be Average Starter”
Analysis sample: “Robinson will be tabbed as a slot receiver but that is underselling his potential. He’s sudden and slick with an ability to make plays from a variety of alignments. He has gadget potential and can function as a dump-and-run target, acting as an extension of the running game.”
Josh Paschal (DE)
Projection: “Will Eventually Be Plus Starter”
Analysis sample: ”Fully grown defender with the play strength and versatility to contribute in odd or even fronts. Paschal’s urgent, full-tilt demeanor helps him control his fair share of engagements, but it also leads to occasional lapses in footwork and balance. He’s like a block of granite at the point of attack with low pads and a heavy anchor.”
Dare Rosenthal (OL)
Projection: “Average Backup Or Special-Teamer
Analysis sample: “A lack of core strength and questions about his maturity are two areas that could short-circuit his chances of becoming a developmental tackle prospect who could begin his career on a practice squad.”
This story was originally published March 2, 2022 at 9:51 AM.
