2020 NFL Draft: 11 Senior Bowl standouts who raised their stock
1. Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
Despite his week ending early due to knee tendonitis, South Carolina’s Javon Kinlaw shined in every way. Reports from Senior Bowl Week praised the intangibles and commanding presence of the 6-3, 315-pound defensive tackle. His poverty-stricken beginnings and perseverance made waves in the draft community, just as his brief play during the first two days did as well.
Kinlaw continued to capitalize on a great senior season and proved very early he was the best player on either Senior Bowl roster. He was able to dominate thanks to his excellent get off and ability to exploit gaps. He has good flexibility and overall athleticism that projects well as an upfield penetrator in a 4-3 scheme.
However, he’s more than that thanks to his ability to convert speed and strength into power. Teams like the Buccaneers could pair him with Vita Vea and continue their defensive dominance in the trenches on defense.
Likewise, the Cowboys can use a player of Kinlaw’s talents to bolster their front. Kinlaw continues to climb up draft boards working his way from a Day 1 lock to a top-15 prospect. It’s unfortunate he couldn’t continue his dominance but he earned himself top-10 buzz, proving he’s a fit for any scheme.