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Defensive End Profiles
By: John McMullen
Defensive End Update: 2/25/98
Even though Florida's Jevon Kearse is regarded as a tweener and has slipped slightly, he remains at the top of the defensive end list. Kearse has the rare burst and closing speed of an elite edge pass rusher. He might be the only immediate impact rusher in the 1999 draft. The big news at defensive end is Virginia's Patrick Kerney, an elite athlete who lacks football experience. Kerney may be a bit of a project and he will not be able to help right away but in five years, there is a possibility that he could be the best defensive player from this draft. Michigan State's Dimitrious Underwood, another hidden gem, also enters are list. Here's the new rankings:
- Jevon Kearse Florida 6-5 255
- Ebenezer Ekuban North Carolina 6-4 265
- Tony Bryant Florida State 6-3 266
- Patrick Kerney Virginia 6-5 262
Kerney came to Virginia as a lacrosse player and has the speed, quickness and athleticism rarely seen in human beings of his size. His burst off the edge and closing speed are off the charts but he lacks experience, strength and technique. Kerney's definitely a project but with the right coaching and a little more work in the weight room, you are looking at an absolutely frightening prospect.
- Mike Rucker Nebraska 6-5 250
- Lamar King Saginaw Valley 6-5 285
- Dimitrius Underwood Michigan State 6-5 265
Underwood missed the 1998 season thanks to disciplinary problems but he has the natural size and build for a defensive end that attracts scouts. Underwood has a nice frame, good strength and can flat out run. It's hard to overlook Underwood's personal problems but he has the upside to be a premier player. Somebody will take a shot on a guy with this kind of athletic ability.
- Robert Daniel Northwest Louisiana 6-5 269
- Tom Burke Wisconsin 6-4 249
- Melvin Bradley Arkansas 6-2 253
For profiles on all these players check out John's last update.
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