SEAHAWKS 2011 DRAFT - Rnd 4, Pick 2 (99): K.J. Wright, LB, Mississippi St.

[Fenom]

K.J. Wright (LB)
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 246 lbs.
Age: 21
Arm Length: 34 7/8 in.
Hand Size: 9 in.
College: Mississippi St.
Conference: SEC

OVERVIEW
Wright's a well-rounded linebacker prospect who could line up as a strongside outside linebacker in a 4-3 front or inside for a 3-4 team. Very nice combination of length, speed and size that can hold up against the power running game, chase down plays across the field, rush the passer and play some in coverage. Main drawback is his lack or pure linebacker instincts. Susceptible to misdirection and run-action. You'd like to see him diagnose a bit quicker and get his physical tools in motion sooner. Wright's a mid-round prospect who could turn into a quality starting with more development and experience.

STRENGTHS
Wright is rangy and well-built. Keeps blockers off his body with his length and active hands. Closes well in pursuit. Sure tackler who can deliver the big blow. Smooth athlete for a high-cut 'backer and comfortable tackling in space or playing in zone coverage. Gets after the passer with speed and power. Durable.

WEAKNESSES
Recognition skills and overall awareness need improvement. Can get walled off when he's a tick late locating the football. Pad level is higher than you'd like on occasion. Needs to watch his angles of pursuit, isn't always direct to the ball-carrier. Has trouble with quicker tight ends and backs in man coverage.

PICK ANALYSIS
Pete Carroll takes a flyer on a rangy athlete with the selection of Wright. He brings some rush skills to the table and has the explosiveness to be an effective chase player on the backside. He also provides some much-needed speed to their special teams unit.

COMBINE STATS
40 Yard Dash: 4.75
Bench Press: 20 Reps
Vertical Jump: 32 in.
Broad Jump: 120 in.
3 Con Drill: 7.26
20 Yard Shuttle: 4.46
60 Yard Shuttle: 11.82

Player overview, strengths, weaknesses, pick analysis, stats, information and picture from NFL.com

 

[Fenom]

Thread is open for discussion.

 

[szat]

I was suprised with the pick, but that has been the theme today. Maybe equates or could be compared to Leroy Hill, and his apperant replacement??

 

[bobflipaburger]

Yeah, I was thrown off a little too... Dexter Davis is a similar type of player and I thought he played well when he got opportunities last year.

 

[#ONE]

Sounds like another LEO