The Green Bay Packers are getting a big dose of versatility for their defensive front in Kingsley Keke, the team’s pick at No. 150 overall in the 2019 NFL draft.
Keke, who lost weight and moved from nose tackle to defensive end in 2018, earned the Mr. Versatility Award at Texas A&M last season, and it’s not difficult to understand why.
Here’s a look at Keke’s snap distribution from last season:
Keke played every position imaginable in the front four of the Texas A&M defense. He produced seven sacks and 11 tackles for losses in 2018.
“This is a big guy who is athletic, can play across the front, he’s long, he’s got feet, hips and closing speed. Had production in the SEC,” Packers scout Charles Walls said. “Another big guy with athleticism who adds versatility for us.”
Walls said Keke slimmed down to under 290 pounds as a senior and switched positions, which allowed him to showcase his athletic ability more and more.
The Packers believe he can play three-tech, five-tech and maybe even some at nose tackle, giving him a chance to be a three-down player in Mike Pettine’s front.
“He brings that versatility,” Walls said. “I’m truly excited about this kid. He can play anywhere.”
The Packers love that Keke has size, athleticism and the skill set to do a little bit of everything.
“He will take on, he’s got 34.5-inch arms, he’s strong, he can bend and play with leverage, he can set the edge or play off blocks as a three-tech. He can do it all,” Walls said.
