LB Darrin Kirkland Jr.
While there are some seniors in the discussion, it might be more fruitful to look at some of the draft-eligible juniors. And inside linebacker Darrin Kirkland Jr. is right near the top of UT’s list of pro prospects. He’s been on NFL radars since he took over UT’s inside linebacker job as a true freshman in 2015, and though injuries have slowed him down at times, he still has the potential to be an elite second-level player.
Athletic, but also physical, Kirkland is a modern-day linebacker who is sturdy enough to play in the box, but quick enough to match up with tight ends and backs. He could play in a 4-3 or 3-4, and his football intelligence should give him a major boost whenever he chooses to go through the NFL evaluation process.
