Houston Texans Draft Focus: Inside Linebacker
Sep 20, 2014; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs linebacker Benardrick McKinney (50) tackles LSU Tigers running back Kenny Hilliard (27) during the third quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Benardrick McKinney – Mississippi State
Height: 6’4 Weight: 246
2014: 71 tackles, 8 TFL, 3 sacks, 0 INT, 1 FF
When you imagine prototypical inside linebacker, you’ll probably see a guy that looks like Benardrick McKinney. He has ideal size, and has good bulk on his body. Scouts cite his ability to get around the ball and make plays. But for a guy with his size and knack for following the ball, he has surprisingly few tackles. He also did not interview well at the combine, which will also hurt his draft stock. Still, it’s not everyday you find guys with his size and instincts. According to Walterfootball.com, McKinney is the only ILB that the Texans have met with privately.
Draft Grade: Late Round 2