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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Khalen Saunders (Western Illinois) - 2019 NFL Draft Pick #84 by KC

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Khalen Saunders - Pre-Draft Analysis (2019 NFL Draft)

Position: Defensive Tackle
College: Western Illinois
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 324 lbs

Overview:

Khalen Saunders was a standout player at Western Illinois, showcasing his talents as a disruptive defensive tackle. His performance in college caught the attention of NFL scouts, thanks to his impressive combination of size, strength, and athleticism.

Strengths:

  • Powerful Build: Saunders has a strong, compact frame that allows him to hold his ground against both the run and pass.
  • Explosive First Step: He exhibits a quick first step off the line of scrimmage, enabling him to penetrate the backfield and disrupt plays.
  • Versatile Skill Set: Capable of playing multiple techniques on the defensive line, Saunders can be an asset in various schemes.
  • High Motor: He consistently plays with intensity and effort, making him a reliable player on every down.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Consistency: While he shows flashes of brilliance, there are times when he struggles to maintain performance throughout the game.
  • Technique Refinement: Needs to work on his hand usage and overall technique to maximize his effectiveness at the next level.
  • Level of Competition: Playing at a smaller school, there are concerns about how he will adjust to the higher competition level in the NFL.

Projection:

Khalen Saunders was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2019 NFL Draft. His potential as a rotational player in a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme, combined with his ability to contribute on special teams, made him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their defensive front.

Conclusion:

With his unique blend of size, athleticism, and competitive spirit, Khalen Saunders had the tools to develop into a solid contributor in the NFL. Teams that prioritized defensive line depth were likely to show interest in him during the draft process.