In his most recent mock draft, Scott Wright of Draft Countdown selected California middle linebacker Mychal Kendricks for the New York Giants with the final pick of the second round. So, let's use today's 2012 NFL Draft Prospect Profile to find out more about Kendricks.
Wright called the 6-foot, 239-pound Kendricks a "Fast, athletic, aggressive 'backer who could project either inside or outside at the next level."
Wes Bunting of the National Football Post seems to point to a skill set that does not fit the Giants.
Is a thick, shorter compact backer who explodes through contact and is a real violent striker. Finds the ball quickly vs. the run and has the range to make plays in pursuit. Lacks ideal size however to stack and shed and lacks a great feel in zone. However, as a thumper inside with the potential to get into the backfield as a blitzer who should get plenty of looks from 34 teams in need of a versatile, high motor backer.
NFL.com says:
Kendricks has been a highly productive middle linebacker with a physical presence for the Golden Bears. He has had high tackle production and has been durable in his role. He will bring a physical presence to any defense and grades out as out of the top inside linebacker prospects in the draft, with 2nd round value. He is physical and capable of playing in a 3-4 scheme if necessary.
Pro Football Weekly says:
Strong, hard-charging, powerful 'backer with versatility to play inside or outside and the work habits, tenacity and motor to earn a starting job. Could even warrant looks as a power-leverage outside linebacker in an aggressive, corner-crashing 3-4 front.
Mychal Kendricks Profile
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 239
School: California
40 time: 4.47
2011 Stats: 106 tackles, 14.5 for loss, 3 sacks, 2 passes defensed, 2 interceptions