Philadelphia Eagles NFL Draft: Eric Kendricks
Oct 4, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; Utah Utes quarterback Kendal Thompson (1) throws a pass as he is pressured by UCLA Bruins linebacker Eric Kendricks (6) during second half action at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Film Study
Now that the background and “boring” stuff is out of the way, it’s time for the good stuff. Here’s where I’ll take a look at some film of Eric Kendricks from this past season throughout a handful of games. Although there’s only one game from this past season available of Kendricks on Draft Breakdown, that is UCLA vs. Virginia. I was also able to record some other clips from the 2014 season thanks to the power of the almighty internet. So let’s get down to business!
I’ll start with the game against Virginia since it was the first game of the season, but also one of Kendricks’ more impressive games of 2014 as well.
1) The very first play of the game against the Cavaliers was likely Kendricks worst of the game. He misreads the option play and chases the QB instead of the RB that actually ends up with the ball. It could have been his responsibility to stay with the QB, but we don’t know for sure.
2) Following that mistake on the first play, Kendricks more than makes up for it by doing a great job against the run during the next two plays. Does a good job of moving laterally, attacking the hole and making a strong, secure tackle on the RB.
3) Kendricks drops into zone coverage on this play. Does a good job of getting his hands on the TE that passes his zone, then once the pass is completed in front of him, he dodges the block attempt and makes the low tackle on the WR for a short gain.
4) Once again, Kendricks does an outstanding job in the running game of moving laterally and then attacking the ball carrier. You’re going to see this a ton whenever you watch him, very stout against the run.
5) Many knock Kendricks for his ability in pass coverage, but here he does an outstanding job of staying with the RB out of the backfield on a wheel route along the sideline and the RB ends up catching the ball out of bounds. It would have been nice if he got his head around to play the ball but a good job nonetheless.
6) Here’s another example of Kendricks doing well in pass coverage. He was actually flagged for pass interference on this play but it looked like good, clean coverage in my opinion.
Next: More Film Study