Elijah Klein (Texas-El Paso) - 2024 NFL Draft Pick #220 by TB
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis: Elijah Klein - Texas-El Paso
Position: Linebacker
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 230 lbs
College: University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)
Overview
Elijah Klein has emerged as one of the standout linebackers in the 2024 NFL Draft class. Known for his versatility, athleticism, and football IQ, Klein has the potential to be an impactful player at the next level. His performance at UTEP showcased his ability to make plays all over the field, making him a desirable prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their defense.
Strengths
- Versatile Skill Set: Klein can effectively play both inside and outside linebacker, making him adaptable to various defensive schemes.
- Football IQ: Displays excellent understanding of offensive schemes which allows him to read plays quickly and react accordingly.
- Strong Tackler: Known for his sure tackling technique, he rarely misses opportunities to bring down ball carriers.
- Coverage Ability: Capable of dropping back in coverage, making him a valuable asset in defending against pass-heavy offenses.
- Leadership: Served as a team captain, showcasing his ability to lead and motivate teammates on and off the field.
Areas for Improvement
- Speed: While Klein is athletic, he may need to improve his straight-line speed to keep up with faster NFL players.
- Injury Concerns: Has had minor injury issues in the past that could raise red flags for some teams.
- Pass Rush Skills: While effective in coverage, developing more pass-rushing techniques could enhance his overall game.
Projected Draft Position
Elijah Klein is currently projected to be selected in the
2nd to 4th round of the 2024 NFL Draft. His combination of skill, experience, and potential to develop further makes him a valuable pick for teams looking to strengthen their linebacker corps.
With his impressive college career at UTEP, Elijah Klein has positioned himself as a promising linebacker prospect. If he can address some of the areas for improvement, he has the potential to make a significant impact in the NFL and could become a key contributor for whichever team selects him in the upcoming draft.