Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
Marshawn Kneeland
- Western Michigan
- Height-6030
- Weight-268 lbs
- Fifth-year Senior
- 2-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 149 tackles, 81 solo, 28.0 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, 3 passes defended, 3 forced fumble
- Games watched: Iowa 2023, Eastern Michigan 2023, Bowling Green 2023
Strengths
First thing that jumps off the screen is the explosiveness and it comes out in multiple facets. He crashes down the line to make plays and moves well in space.
Kneeland has great size and length and he knows how to use it. He consistently drives blockers back into the quarterback and keeps them out of his chest by using his length. When he uses his favorite move the long arm, Kneeland build off of it with a spin counter attacking the inside shoulder.
The size is very intriguing especially in odd fronts. He can play all across the line in different formations, including standing up and dropping in zone blitzes.
Weaknesses
Kneeland had a good motor and strength but he didn’t always maximize it. Kneeland needs to work on moving his feet. That will help him get a more consistent pushback and less issues being stood up.
When trying to bend the edge, Kneeland shows a tendency to lose his balance when getting chipped. He needs to see the double teams coming and handle them in a better manner.
Needs to develop consistent counters outside of a spin move on pass rushes around the edge. Hands could be a little more active and having that cohesive pass rush plan is paramount.
Overview
| Bend | 7.7/10 |
| Quickness/Burst | 11.6/15 |
| Finesse | 3.7/5 |
| Power | 4.2/5 |
| Counters | 7.7/10 |
| Awareness | 7.8/10 |
| Run Defense | 8.2/10 |
| Versatility | 8.4/10 |
| Size/Length | 12.4/15 |
| Tackling | 7.9/10 |
| Grade | 79.6/100 Third Round |
Kneeland is the seventh member of the All-Forno team and presents a very intriguing option on day two, especially for teams that like to use both multiple and odd fronts. He presents a very intriguing matchup with the tools to become a plus pass rusher.
