clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Washington Redskins 2016 Draft Profiles: Kentrell Brothers, ILB

Hogs Haven takes a look at 2016 NFL Draft prospects that could contribute to the Redskins.

Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Kentrell Brothers, ILB
School: Missouri | Conference: SEC
College Experience: Senior | Age: 22
Height / Weight: 6-0 / 249 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 2nd Round
NFL Comparison: Avery Williamson

College Statistics

Player Overview

Kentrell Brothers led the FBS in tackles this year with 152 of them, that's averaging 12.9 per game. He was snubbed in being named a semifinalist for Butkus Award given to the nation's top linebacker. Brothers acknowledged the snub bothered him a little bit he still thinks he has a lot to prove. Brothers won't be the strongest, fastest, tallest, or most athletic inside linebacker but it's clear he's one of the smartest, most instinctive, and has a non-stop motor. Brothers isn't going to run a 4.6 40 but he somehow will stick to his assignments at TE and even WR in coverage. Brothers won't bench 225 lbs 40 times but he will attack blockers, disengage, and get to the football. He's a good football player not flashy in his physical attributes but has out produced a few "body beautiful" (thanks Mayock) linebackers in college football in a lot of areas. He is solid in pass rushing, coverage, and run stopping and is physical in his play. He scored a 28 on the Wonderlic the average for linebackers is 19.

Strengths

  • Diagnoses the run well he has good vision always has eyes on the ball and is always in pursuit of the ball carrier.
  • Fundamentally sound in his tackling, there are no half-hearted efforts.
  • Solid in coverage, don't expect him to go 1 on 1 with Odell Beckham but do expect him to hang with the majority of TEs and players that enter the middle of the field.
  • Great instincts and patience, sticks to his gaps and assignments. Waits to get the best angle to chase down a runner instead of running into blocks
  • Very smart and has a great football IQ.

Weaknesses

  • Average athleticism and speed.
Let's see his work:



How He Would Fit on the Redskins

Brothers would most likely be a day one starter if drafted by the Redskins. I see no issue with him either being the MIKE or WILL linebacker in our 3-4 defense. If he doesn't automatically take the MIKE role (which is essentially the QB of the defense) I can see him being moved there eventually because of his intelligence and understanding of the game. Brothers would bring that innate instinctive ability that seems to be lacking with our ILB core and solid tackling that disappeared at times during the season.