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According to Tony Pauline, Iowa outsider linebacker Christian Kirksey met with the Philadelphia Eagles for an official pre-draft visit earlier this week.
The 21-year-old Kirksey measures in at 6-2, 233 lbs. The Iowa senior finished his college career with 335 total tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, 4 interceptions, 2 defensive TDs, 9 passes defensed, 1 fumble recovery, and 5 forced fumbles. Kirksey is currently projected to be an early mid-round pick.
Positive: Three-year starter who posted a career-best 110 tackles as a sophomore. Explosive weakside linebacker prospect who makes plays sideline to sideline. Fast moving in every direction of the field, works hard to get involved, and plays bigger than his listed size. Breaks down well, effectively uses his hands to protect himself, and fights hard to get off blocks. Covers a lot of area, easily changes direction without losing momentum, and effective making plays in space. Displays closing speed, the ability to pursue from the backside, and gets depth on pass drops. Shows skill in coverage matching-up against tight ends or running backs.
Negative: Struggles getting off blocks and at times needs a free shot at the ball to make plays. Will be overmatched by tight ends in the NFL.
Analysis: Kirksy is athletic, competitive, and a linebacker who constantly finds ways to make plays on the ball. Limited by size, he projects as a weakside linebacker in a one- gap system and should be an asset on special teams.
Spider graph below. Funny enough, his measurements compare to three former Eagles: Bryan Smith, Moise Fokou, Chris Clemons, and one current Eagle: Josh Kaddu. ESP notes that Kirksey reportedly ran a 4.48 40 at his Pro Day, which would have been fastest at the combine among outside linebackers.