2020 NFL Draft: 8 Intriguing prospects from college football Week 8

1. Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina

Javon Kinlaw led his South Carolina defense against the Florida Gators on Saturday. And while they didn’t win, Kinlaw did his best in a game where the run defense suffered as a unit. The Gators made sure to not allow Kinlaw to get many one-on-one opportunities and wisely so. But when he did, he showed an effective bull rush, creating pressure up the middle. Unfortunately, he didn’t register a sack but he did finish the game with four tackles.

Kinlaw is 6-6, 310 pounds with fantastic length and solid bulk. He’s a versatile defensive tackle thanks to defensive coordinator Travaris Robinson playing him at multiple positions along the interior.

Most notably, Kinlaw has played the 1-technique, where he’s shown his strength and the ability to take up blockers. He’s also played the 3-technique, where he showed his quick first step and some athleticism.

There’s some concern about his weight as he once tipped the scales at about 350 pounds. However, his excellent work ethic allowed him to drop the weight. He still has room to grow on his frame, meaning he could play at 320 pounds comfortably.

Because of his length, Kinlaw will be attractive to 3-4 teams looking for him to play the 5-technique, though 4-3 teams will surely still have interest. Kinlaw is a top-50 prospect who’ll likely hear his name called in the first two rounds.