The Philadelphia Eagles' linebacker corps has been a pivotal component of their defensive strategy, and one player who has consistently made an impact is Mychal Kendricks. With his unique blend of speed, agility, and tackling prowess, Kendricks has established himself as a key figure in the Eagles' defense. In this article, we will delve into Kendricks' career, analyzing his strengths, weaknesses, and the role he plays in the Eagles' overall defensive scheme.
Early Career and Development
Kendricks was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Initially, he was expected to contribute as a reserve linebacker, but his impressive performance during the preseason earned him a starting role. Throughout his rookie season, Kendricks demonstrated his ability to excel in both pass coverage and run defense, showcasing his versatility as a linebacker. As he continued to develop, Kendricks became an integral part of the Eagles’ defense, known for his speed, agility, and tackling ability.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Kendricks’ greatest strength lies in his athleticism, which allows him to effectively cover tight ends and running backs in pass coverage. His lateral quickness and reaction time enable him to rapidly change direction and make plays on the ball. Additionally, Kendricks is an adept tackler, capable of delivering big hits and wrapping up ballcarriers. However, one area where Kendricks has struggled is in his read-and-react ability, often taking a moment to diagnose plays and react accordingly.
| Season | Tackles | Sacks | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 88 | 1 | 0 |
| 2013 | 137 | 4 | 3 |
| 2014 | 83 | 4 | 0 |
| 2015 | 86 | 3 | 0 |
Role in the Eagles’ Defense
Kendricks plays a crucial role in the Eagles’ 4-3 defensive scheme, serving as the team’s strong-side linebacker. His primary responsibilities include covering tight ends and running backs, setting the edge against the run, and blitzing the quarterback. Kendricks’ versatility and athleticism have allowed him to thrive in this role, making him a vital component of the Eagles’ defense. The team’s defensive coordinator has often praised Kendricks’ ability to read and react to the offense, allowing him to make plays and create turnovers.
Comparative Analysis
In comparison to other linebackers in the NFL, Kendricks’ statistics and performance metrics place him among the top tier. His tackle rate and pass coverage grade are consistently high, demonstrating his value to the Eagles’ defense. When evaluating Kendricks’ game, it becomes clear that he is an exceptional all-around linebacker, capable of excelling in multiple facets of the game.
- Tackle rate: 10.2% (2015 season)
- Pass coverage grade: 82.1 (2015 season)
- Run defense grade: 75.6 (2015 season)
Future Implications
As the NFL continues to evolve, the importance of versatile and athletic linebackers like Kendricks will only continue to grow. The Eagles’ defense, with Kendricks at its core, is well-positioned to succeed in the future. With his contract extension in place, Kendricks will remain a key component of the Eagles’ defense for years to come. As the team looks to build upon its recent success, Kendricks will play a crucial role in shaping the Eagles’ defensive identity and leading the team to victory.
What is Mychal Kendricks’ primary role in the Eagles’ defense?
+Kendricks serves as the Eagles’ strong-side linebacker, responsible for covering tight ends and running backs, setting the edge against the run, and blitzing the quarterback.
What are some of Kendricks’ key strengths as a linebacker?
+Kendricks’ greatest strengths include his speed, agility, and tackling ability, which allow him to excel in both pass coverage and run defense.
How does Kendricks’ contract extension impact the Eagles’ defense?
+Kendricks’ contract extension ensures that he will remain a key component of the Eagles’ defense for years to come, providing stability and consistency to the team’s defensive strategy.
