2015 NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Kwon Alexander, LB, LSU

The NFL is moving in a new direction when it comes to linebackers. They are getting smaller. They are getting faster. They no longer take on blocks head on, but are quick enough to avoid them altogether. Gone are the days of the 6-foot-5, 265 pound thumper that runs a 4.95. Now you've got these ultra-lite players that fly all over the field. Kwon Alexander is one such example. Let's take a closer look at him:

Pros

- Quick twitch athleticism.

- Plus lateral agility and true sideline to sideline range

- Natural pass rusher

- Comfortable dropping back into coverage

- Reportedly high work ethic/locker room good guy

Cons

- Length and size are lacking.

- Instincts are questionable. Sometimes slow to read and react.

- Stack/shed ability flashes, but is inconsistent

Does He Fit With The Giants?

Yes. I'm not buying that the Giants only look for these bulked up monsters at linebacker. If the round is late enough, they'll go away from their comfort zone. Jacquian Williams was 225 pounds when he was drafted. Spencer Paysinger plays in the 230 range. Kwon Alexander isn't a day 1 prospect and might not be a day 2 prospect, so the fact that he weighs 233 pounds doesn't mean much. The Giants need a weakside linebacker and Alexander can provide that.

Prospect Video

Big Board Rankings

Big Blue View - Not in top 100

Mocking The Draft - Not in top 100

CBS Sports - 102

Draft Tek - 112

Final Thoughts

Alexander has some pretty obvious flaws. I'm having trouble figuring out his awareness, because sometimes he just doesn't react fast enough. He struggles shedding blocks and I'm not sure if he'll be a huge asset against the run. That being said, he can fly. He'll give you an advantage in coverage and as a blitzer, two aspects that I'm sure many teams will covet. He reminds me of Kevin Pierre-Louis, who went in the fourth round to the Seattle Seahawks last year. I think the draft range for Alexander is similar: Fourth round for me, maybe early third.