Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Christian Kirksey (Iowa) - 2014 NFL Draft Pick #71 by CLE

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Christian Kirksey (2014 NFL Draft)

Position: Linebacker
College: Iowa
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 233 lbs

Overview:

Christian Kirksey was a standout linebacker at the University of Iowa, known for his athleticism, speed, and instincts on the field. He was a key defensive player for the Hawkeyes, showcasing his ability to make plays both in run defense and pass coverage.

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Kirksey possesses excellent speed for a linebacker, allowing him to cover ground quickly and effectively.
• Instincts: He demonstrates strong football instincts, often anticipating plays and reacting accordingly.
• Versatility: Kirksey has the ability to play multiple linebacker positions, making him a valuable asset for any defensive scheme.
• Tackling: He is a sound tackler, capable of bringing down ball carriers effectively in open space.

Areas for Improvement:

• Size: While Kirksey is athletic, some scouts believe he could benefit from adding more bulk to handle bigger players at the NFL level.
• Experience: He played in a predominantly zone defense at Iowa, which may require an adjustment period in more complex NFL schemes.

Overall Assessment:

Kirksey was viewed as an intriguing prospect heading into the 2014 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, intelligence, and versatility made him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps. While there were concerns regarding his size and transition to the NFL, his potential to develop into a starting linebacker was widely recognized. Projected Draft Round: 2nd-3rd Round