2014 NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Kyle Van Noy, Linebacker, BYU

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Kyle Van Noy – Linebacker – BYU
Ht: 6’3’’
Wt: 244 lbs

2013 defensive statistics
41 Tackles
17 TFL
4 sacks
2 INT

Projected Round: Late 1st – Early 2nd

Kyle Van Noy surprised people last year with his decision to return to BYU for his senior year. Van Noy was penciled in as an early round prospect if he had declared in 2012. On defense, he can do everything. He can drop into coverage, as well as finding holes in the rush. He is a versatile player who has solidified himself as a desirable prospect. He was one of the best pass rushers in college football in 2012, and picked up where he left off in 2013.

Positives:

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Van Noy has phenomenal play recognition. He is quick in reacting to the ball and is in on almost every play. His ability to locate the ball makes up for what he lacks in athleticism. He is always one step ahead of the opposition. He is good in pursuit because of this as well. Van Noy is very instinctive and knows how to get to the ball carrier efficiently.

His versatility is what makes him stand out on film. He rushes the passer as good as anyone. He does a good job off the edge, and is dangerous when given space. He has been very effective at getting to the quarterback over his career. He has good technique in the run game, which gives him the ability to make plays in the backfield.

He is also solid in coverage. His instincts help him anticipate routes, which gives him the ability to make plays on the ball. He has shown great improvement in his fluidity, and his ability to move around on the defense.

Negatives:

Van Noy is not as athletic as many would like. He doesn’t have the explosion and speed that other prospects possess. This limits him on his ability to change direction quickly in coverage. In zone defenses, he tends to be late to his spot. He makes up for his lack of athleticism with great anticipation.

He is not a powerful pass rusher. He has trouble shedding blocks when the offensive lineman has engaged. At BYU he had a lot of free rushes, so his block shedding techniques are lacking. At the NFL level, opponents will take advantage of his lack of power and could cause him to be an afterthought on some plays.

Conclusion:

Kyle Van Noy is a jack-of-all-trades kind of football player. He does everything well, but isn’t perfect at any one thing. He is very smart on defense and can be an instant leader for his team. He anticipates plays quicker than most, and can make up for his negatives with his instincts. Van Noy can be very successful right away if he is put into the perfect situation. His versatility and play making ability would make him a perfect fit for a team like the New Orleans Saints, who build their defenses around dynamic defenders. He is a safe pick because you know what you are getting with him, but he does have high upside.