Tuesday, March 26, 2024

2024 NFL Draft Prospect DE Marshawn Kneeland

DE Marshawn Kneeland:

Scouting Reports:








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Marshawn Kneeland season highlights:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bxu-Ef-tOUI

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2024 NFL Draft: 10 best available prospects for Detroit Lions on Day 2 (Western Michigan EDGE Marshawn Kneeland:  A local product from Grand Rapids who stayed in state to play at Western Michigan, Kneeland’s large frame (6-foot-3, 267 pounds) foreshadows his physical play style on the edge. Though he isn’t a twitched-up athlete and hasn’t developed a varied pass-rush attack, Kneeland’s max effort and power serves him well as a bull-rusher and in setting the edge in run defense. Detroit still needs to figure out what they have in Josh Paschal, though, so it’s fair to wonder how redundant Kneeland would be as yet another sound run defender and pocket pusher opposite of Aidan Hutchinson.) (4-26-24):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/4/26/24141355/2024-nfl-draft-10-best-available-prospects-for-detroit-lions-on-day-2

Detroit Lions Day 2 Draft Wishlist (EDGE Marshawn Kneeland (Western Michigan):  Kneeland is an interesting prospect as a product of the Mid-American Conference. He elected to stay with the Broncos rather than move to the Power Five level through the transfer portal last season. He's powerful working off the edge, and his 28 career tackles for loss are evidence of legitimate production.) (4-26-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/day-two-lions-wishlist-2024-nfl-draft

Best remaining prospects for Detroit’s second-round pick (EDGE Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan:  There’s no such thing as having too many talented edge defenders. While it may not seem like a glaring need, Detroit would greatly benefit from having more defensive ends that they can rotate in as needed.  Kneeland could be that guy for the Lions. Paired with the likes of Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, James Houston, John Cominsky, and Josh Paschal, Kneeland would be one more athletic option to aid in the pass rush.  He also has versatility going for him. With his frame, he would be able to slide inside and play some three-technique or be on the outside and blitz from a stand-up linebacker position.  If Kneeland is unavailable, other options at the edge include Alabama’s Chris Braswell or Washington’s Braden Trice.) (4-26-24):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2024/04/26/best-remaining-prospects-detroit-lions-draft-day-2/

Ranking Top 10 Players Lions Could Pick in Second Round (5. EDGE Marshawn Kneeland:  Despite having played in the Mid-American Conference, Kneeland is by no means a little-known prospect. He has legit skill coming off the edge, and was able to display it while honing his craft playing at Western Michigan.  Kneeland had 37 pressures last season but missed some time in the middle of the season. He also had a PFF pass-rush grade of 84.7 He seems adept at closing pockets and giving opposing passers minimal room to operate. This would make him an excellent match for Aidan Hutchinson.) (4-22-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/ranking-lions-options-second-round

Surprise top-10 selections, trades, other draft topics (7. Which prospect could make the biggest leap into Round 1?  Wilson: EDGE Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan. "I've been talking about Marshawn Kneeland since the Senior Bowl, and the Western Michigan edge rusher has been impressive during the pre-draft process. He consistently wins with power and can line up just about anywhere. He'll need to continue to develop his pass-rush moves but at 6-3, 267, he looks the part. And more importantly, NFL teams are convinced that his best football is ahead of him."  Edwards: EDGE Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan. "I've been saying this for weeks before it was trendy. There are a handful of teams in the second half of the first round that could address the position, including the Buccaneers, Lions and Cardinals.") (4-22-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-biggest-questions-veteran-trades-surprise-top-10-picks-and-answers-to-other-pressing-topics/

2024 NFL Draft: 5 Prospects Who Could Sneak Into Round One (2. Western Michigan EDGE Marshawn Kneeland:  The edge rusher position is a fascinating one to break down. The consensus top four of Laiatu Latu, Chop Robinson, Jared Verse and Dallas Turner are all likely to go in the first round. However, there could be 1-3 more that end up going in that range and one of those could be Kneeland. While he did play at Western Michigan, Kneeland was a menace for the Broncos, lining up all over the front seven and wreaking havoc from everywhere. With his athleticism and size, Kneeland would be a great fit for a hybrid defensive front.) (4-20-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-prospects-sneak-round-one

NFL Draft 2024: Top 10 edge rushers, from Dallas Turner to Marshawn Kneeland (10. Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan (6-3, 267 pounds):  Kneeland doesn't have jaw-dropping pop, but he gets it done getting to the quarterback with relentless, smart, and expansive moves. He has untapped upside, plus a sold frame vs. the run.  Draft projection: Late second-round or early third-round pick) (4-17-24):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2024-prospects-edge-rusher-rankings/b51e9a544ce6c1348b54aa65

NFL Draft: Nix, Coleman headline buyer-beware prospects (Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan - Why: Limited pass-rush move arsenal, high pad level, lacking collegiate production.  There's a future reality in which Kneeland becomes one of the best edge rushers in the class, because he's 6-foot-3, nearly 270 pounds, with over 34-inch arms, a 35.5-inch vertical and a 7.02 three-cone time on his draft resume. In short, objectively, the size and athleticism boxes are checked.  Despite the ultra-stocky frame, that typically yields serious power, that isn't the case with Kneeland because his rushes are high. The pad level must dip at the next level to have any semblance of bull-rush ability, the foundational rush for the vast majority of NFL defensive linemen. While he plays "half a man" well -- meaning he understands how to work one side of the blocker he's facing, Kneeland was simply not very productive in the MAC. That's an issue. He only generated a pressure on 11.6% of pass-rushing opportunities. How'd that happen? Behind the surprisingly power-deficient rushes appearing more often than expected, Kneeland's hand work is average at best. The pass-rush plans are disorganized or simply not there.  There's some buzz Kneeland could be an early second-round pick. That'd be too risky of a proposition in my estimation, although I will say, this edge rusher class severely lacks "depth" on Day 2.) (4-18-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-buyer-beware-on-bo-nix-keon-coleman-and-these-other-top-prospects/

2024 NFL Draft insider notes: The Brock Bowers vs Drake Maye conversation and Steelers' plans to shore up ranks (The other player who is getting a tremendous amount of buzz that will be selected earlier than anyone presently predicts is Marshawn Kneeland of Western Michigan. Despite participating in the Senior Bowl and combine, Kneeland has had 16 official-30 visits, a huge number for a player with no medical or character concerns.His recent schedule included trips to meet with the Tampa Bay Bucs, Carolina Panthers and Indianapolis Colts last week, the Detroit Lions this past weekend and the Buffalo Bills as well as the Green Bay Packers on Monday through Wednesday of this week. While teams are doing a lot of double checking, Kneeland is considered one of the safest pass rushers in this draft.  So who could take Kneeland and where will he go? The San Francisco 49ers were hot on his trail, but the team signed two pass rushers in free agency, so cross them off the list. The Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions have shown a ton of interest in Kneeland, and he could end up with either team at the end of Round 2 (assuming Detroit does not take a pass rusher in the first round).) (4-16-24):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-2024-nfl-draft-insider-notes-the-brock-bowers-vs-drake-maye-conversation-steelers-plans-shore-ranks

Marshawn Kneeland to Visit Lions (4-15-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/marshawn-kneeland-visiting-lions

The 10 most likely Lions first-round draft targets at No. 29 overall (Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan:  Kneeland is an optimal size and athleticism fit for what the Lions have looked for at EDGE. At 6-foot-3 and a long-armed 267 pounds, he has experience rushing the passer from both in-line and stand-up alignments. His production suffered as he played through a foot injury in 2023, but Kneeland has proven he can finish behind the line of scrimmage.) (4-15-24):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-2024-nfl-draft-most-likely-first-round-targets/

2024 NFL Draft EDGE rankings & analysis (9: Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan:  Kneeland (6’030/267) was a largely unrecruited two-star prospect at the FBS level who also played basketball and ran track in high school. He played sparsely for his first couple of seasons before earning a starting role in 2022, racking up 25 pressures and 24 stops to go with a 77th percentile PFF overall grade in nine games. His play leveled-up this year with Kneeland receiving a 90th% overall grade (eighth in FBS) with 57 tackles, 35 stops (ninth) and an 18.5% third down pressure rate. Though the defensive captain was able to generate 37 pressures he only hit paydirt for 4.5 sacks, with 3.0 of them coming in one game against Eastern Michigan. He has had trouble staying on the field at times, missing multiple games in each of the last two campaigns with calf and elbow injuries.  Being a small school athlete, Kneeland’s Combine testing was an important part of his evaluation process. While the straight line speed marks were decent with a 4.75s 40-yard dash (79th%) and 1.65s 10-yard split (77th%), his 4.18s shuttle (97th%) and 7.02s 3-Cone (91st%) were outstanding. His solid 35.5” vert (88th%) and 9’11” broad jump (81st%) helped elevate Kneeland’s Relative Athletic Score to a very respectable 9.08 RAS. Perhaps most impressive for NFL purposes were his 34.5” arms and sturdy 267 pound weigh-in.  A rare power-edge in a speed-rusher dominated draft class, Kneeland explodes into contact with the intention of caving in his opponent’s chest and driving him into the backfield. Quick trigger off the snap with a stifling punch and penchant for ripping through blockers’ edges. What he lacks in refined technique, he makes up for in sheer tenacity and desire. Kneeland has the requisite strength and athleticism to develop into a fearsome edge-setting, defensive end if he can develop his moveset with NFL level coaching.) (4-14-24):  https://www.nbcsports.com/college-football/news/2024-nfl-draft-edge-rankings-analysis

2024 NFL Draft: 5 prospects who could crash the 1st round (EDGE Marshawn Kneeland – Western Michigan.  After Dallas Turner and Jared Verse, there is no consensus about who the next edge defender off the board will be. I would submit that with his impressive size and non-stop motor, Marshan Kneeland could end up beating out some of the big-school guys who are smaller and less consistent.) (4-13-24):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-marshawn-kneeland-ben-sinnott-mike-sainristil/

Most underrated prospect in draft? Top 8 candidates (PICK: Marshawn Kneeland, Edge, Western Michigan.  There’s some debate over just how athletic he is relative to his testing numbers, but Kneeland impressed me with his movement skills in space along with his momentum-stopping hitting ability. He’ll whiff on a few plays and might be overwhelmed by elite power blockers, but Kneeland has a hot motor, big production and a nose for the ball. I think top 50 isn’t out of the question.) (4-10-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/most-underrated-nfl-draft-prospect-in-2024-class-one-qb-among-eight-potential-candidates

2024 NFL Draft Top 10 Edge Rushers: Dallas Turner ranks as top dog, Chop Robinson, Laiatu Latu ones to keep an eye on (8. Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan: Kneeland is a good football player who was tough to handle standing over tackle and coming out of a three-point stance at Western Michigan. He lacks great upside, yet he could be a solid situational pass rusher and core special-teams player. Marshawn Kneeland draft projection: third round) (4-9-24):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/2024-nfl-draft-top-10-edge-rushers-dallas-turner-ranks-top-dog-chop-robinson-laiatu-latu-ones-keep-eye

2024 NFL Draft: Western Michigan DL Marshawn Kneeland scouting report (4-9-24):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2024/04/09/2024-nfl-draft-western-michigan-dl-marshawn-kneeland-scouting-report/

2024 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Edge defenders (9. ED MARSHAWN KNEELAND, WESTERN MICHIGAN - PFF BIG BOARD RANK: 58. Overall, his competition wasn't the best, but he absolutely dominated it, especially in 2023. NFL teams will love his passion for physicality. He has the body, explosiveness and mentality of an NFL contributor.) (4-8-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-position-rankings-edge-defenders

2024 NFL Draft: Doug Farrar's favorite underrated prospects (Marshawn Kneeland, DL, Western Michigan:  Watching Kneeland’s tape is certainly an experience, because at 6-foot-3 and 267 pounds, he goes heavy and hard to the quarterback from just about everywhere on the line.  Kneeland totaled six sacks, three quarterback hits, 28 quarterback hurries, 38 solo tackles, and 35 stops for the Broncos. 10 of Kneeland’s pressures came when he played inside the tackles, and he could also make his presence known as an off-ball “Spinner” when Western Michigan went into their three-man line package on third downs. Kneeland might drop to the second round, but if he goes any later than that, a lot of NFL teams missed the boat.) (4-3-24):   https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-spencer-rattler-adonai-mitchell-elijah-jones/

2024 NFL Draft: Defensive line prospect superlatives (BEST BULL RUSH: EDGE MARSHAWN KNEELAND, WESTERN MICHIGAN  - There are a handful of edge rushers in this class who have devastating power – Jared Verse, Darius Robinson, Bralen Trice. And that’s not even mentioning defensive tackles like T’Vondre Sweat and his teammate Byron Murphy II. Nonetheless, I’m giving the nod to Kneeland here because I don’t think he’s getting enough love in this class. To quote the PFF draft guide: “Kneeland's film looks like a car crash from an action movie (in a good way). He puts his big body on the line every snap, and doesn't want to run around his blockers; he wants to run through them.” His pass rush profile is built around imposing strength early on in the game, then adding more finesse as offensive tackles over-set to counter his strength.) (3-26-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-defensive-line-prospect-superlatives

2024 NFL Draft edge rusher rankings: 4 potential stars lead our top 10 (8. Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan — 6-3, 267, Redshirt Senior.  Overview: Every year, there is a prospect who stars at the Senior Bowl and surprises as a Top 100 selection. Kneeland is among this year's top candidates for that honor. A Grand Rapids native, he signed with the Broncos amid little fanfare despite a stellar prep career. He emerged as a standout for Western Michigan back in 2021, recording 7.5 tackles for loss while playing in all 13 games. He emerged as an All-MAC performer this past season by recording a career-high 57 stops, as well as 7.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks prior to an impressive showing in Mobile and at the Scouting Combine.  Strengths - Powerfully built defender who uses his fists as sledgehammers when attacking and breaking past blockers.  Complements his powerful hands with disproportionately long (34 ½") arms.  Testing shows untapped potential as a "mover," with impressive agility and explosiveness, including a 35.5" vertical jump and 7.02-second three-cone time — scores normally associated with players 40 pounds lighter.  Production didn't waver despite playing multiple positions.  Concerns - More efficient than explosive off the snap, relying on power and lateral agility to beat opponents but lacking elite first-step quickness.  Currently more of a brute than a polished edge rusher.  Could do a better job of bringing his hips to finish tackles, relying too often on his long arms and pull-down strength to wrestle ballcarriers to the turf, resulting in too many broken tackles.  Has missed a couple of games each of the past two seasons due to injury  Summary: A former tight end still learning the nuances of defense, Kneeland turned heads at both the Senior Bowl and Combine with his unusual combination of size, power and agility. He's a bit of a project but possesses the frame and game to intrigue every NFL team, with some viewing his greatest fit as a traditional hand-in-the-dirt defensive end and others as a stand-up rusher.  Grade: Second-to-third round) (3-20-24):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2024-nfl-draft-edge-rusher-rankings-4-potential-stars-lead-our-top-10

49ers to host Marshawn Kneeland and Jamal Hill on pre-draft visits (3-13-24):  https://www.49erswebzone.com/articles/179290-49ers-marshawn-kneeland-pre-draft-visits/

Marshawn Kneeland attracts a big crowd for Western Michigan's pro day (3-12-24):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2024/03/12/marshawn-kneeland-western-michigan-pro-day-workout-nfl-draft/

NFL Pro Day notes from Western Michigan & South Carolina: Latest on Spencer Rattler and edge rusher Marshawn Kneeland (Kneeland, Rattler, Dial) (3-12-24):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-nfl-pro-day-notes-western-michigan-south-carolina-latest-spencer-rattler-edge-rusher-marshawn-kneeland

2024 NFL Draft: Early- and late-round fits for every NFC team (DETROIT LIONS - Early-Round Fit: ED Marshawn Kneeland.  Late-Round Fit: CB Caelen Carson.  The Lions have a type: aggressive and physical. Kneeland fits that to a tee and recorded much better agility scores than expected at the NFL Scouting Combine to make a push for a late first-round selection. As for Carson, his calling card as a cornerback is how reliable he can be in run support, something Detroit will gravitate toward.) (3-7-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-early-late-round-fits-nfc

Top EDGEs in the 2024 NFL Draft: Ranking Dallas Turner, Laiatu Latu, Jared Verse, and Others (8. Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan:  On the heels of a four-year Western Michigan career that saw him put up 12.5 sacks and 28 TFLs, Marshawn Kneeland has been a steady riser through the pre-draft process. He stood out at the Senior Bowl and kept on the gas with his 2024 NFL Scouting Combine showing.  At the Combine, Kneeland measured in at 6’3″, 267 pounds, with 34″ arms, and he logged high-level explosiveness numbers. He’s not a speed or bend rusher, but with his raw power and hot motor, he can provide value for an NFL defense.) (3-6-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-edges-nfl-draft-2024/

5 Underrated 2024 NFL Combine Winners (MARSHAWN KNEELAND, EDGE, WESTERN MICHIGAN:  Agility drills are unfortunately becoming a lost art. More than 200 combine participants opted out of the three-cone and 20-yard shuttle drills, according to Mike Florio. One that didn't? Western Michigan defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who posted elite testing numbers in every category.  Kneeland topped the leaderboard in the three-cone (7.02) and shuttle (4.18) by a wide margin. Kneeland's 35.5 inch vertical, 9-foot-11 broad, and 4.75 40 also qualified as elite results, leading to a Relative Athletic Score of 9.87. Kneeland may be drafted within the top 50 selections.) (3-4-24):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/03/04/2024-nfl-combine-underrated-winners

Marshawn Kneeland's stellar NFL Scouting Combine should put him high on the Lions draft radar (3-1-24):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2024/03/01/marshawn-kneeland-nfl-scouting-combine-detroit-lions-draft-radar/

2024 NFL Combine insider notes: Edge rushers make their presence known (4. Marshawn Kneeland/DE/Western Michigan:  There’s a lot of love for Kneeland in the scouting community, and he repaid scouts for their loyalty Thursday with a great workout. Measuring 6-foot-3 and 267 pounds, Kneeland timed 4.75 seconds in the 40 with a quick 10-yard split of 1.66 seconds. His vertical of 35.5 inches was another good mark. Kneeland’s times in the three-cone and short shuttle were spectacular. His three-cone mark of 7.04 seconds is a time rarely matched -- by defensive backs! His short shuttle time of 4.18 seconds was better than any other defensive linemen by almost .1 seconds. Kneeland had been receiving consideration as a Day 2 draft pick, and today he made believers out of the doubters.) (3-1-24):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-2024-nfl-combine-insider-notes-edge-rushers-make-presence-known

Defensive Linemen Capable of Rising Up Lions' Draft Board (Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan:  Kneeland, a Grand Rapids, Mich., native, would be a solid Day 2 target for Holmes & Co. He produced a solid showing at the Senior Bowl, and his stock has been on the rise ever since.  Kneeland, who lined up at multiple positions during his time at Western Michigan (including at EDGE and downhill linebacker), displayed the ability to stop the run and get after the quarterback during his five seasons with the Broncos.  In 2023, the 6-foot-3, 275-pounder compiled 57 total tackles, including 7.5 for loss, 4.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. He earned second-team All-MAC honors for his efforts, and also received an impressive 89.7 overall grade from Pro Football Focus.  Kneeland would provide Detroit with a steady contributor at EDGE opposite Aidan Hutchinson.) (2-29-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/defensive-linemen-rising-up-lions-draft-board

NFL Combine results: 10 standouts from the edge rusher group (Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan (6-foot-3, 267 pounds): When watching Kneeland’s on-field drills, the most noticeable thing was how quickly he covered distances. His 7.02-second 3-cone drill—one of the best predictors of edge rusher success in the NFL—was in the elite range and led the group. It also correlates to what we were seeing on the field in drills, with his speed while bending. With a solid frame and great length (34.5-inch arm length), he’s another player where you need to look beyond his 40-yard dash (4.75 seconds) because he showed a lot of skill.) (2-29-24):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/3/1/24087136/nfl-combine-results-10-standouts-edge-rusher-group

Defensive lineman who fit what Brad Holmes looks for in the draft (Players Who Fit the Measurements *Note: Players who hit on three out of the four qualifiers will be listed.  Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan.  Players Who's Testing Fit *Note: Players who hit on three out of the four qualifiers will be listed but no player hit on three but several hit on two.  Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan.) (2-29-24):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/defensive-lineman-combine-fit-brad-holmes-lions-scouting-fits-kneeland/

2024 Scouting Combine: Which DL, EDGE, and LB helped themselves the most? (Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan:  Kneeland made my 2024 Scouting Combine All-Underrated Team quite easily with some ridiculous tape, and he was the best in class here with a 7.02-second 3-cone drill, and a 4.18-second short shuttle. That’s really good for a guy standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 267 pounds. Kneeland had six sacks and 37 total pressures last season, and NFL teams are going to lead with the tape, but Kneeland’s combine performance didn’t hurt him at all.) (2-29-24):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-scouting-combine-chop-robinson-braden-fiske-nfl-draft/

2024 NFL Combine Stock Report – Defensive Ends (Marshawn Kneeland, DE, Western Michigan:  Marshawn Kneeland didn’t stand out with his 40 time (4.75), which wasn’t a bad number at his 267-pound frame. However, he had a 35.5-inch vertical and the best 3-cone time (7.02) among all edge rushers and linebackers.) (2-29-24):  https://walterfootball.com/combine2024stockDE.php

Overheard at NFL combine: Harbaugh haircut, a ‘household name’, Michigan-Ohio State (Western Michigan DL Marshawn Kneeland on who he sees himself in: “Just somebody that I’ve noticed that plays a lot like how I play is Aidan Hutchinson. His high motor, high effort. He’s always running to the ball. I looked at the times; some of his times are a little faster than mine, and some of mine are a little faster than his. But I think I’m close to him.”) (2-29-24):  https://www.mlive.com/sports/2024/02/overheard-at-nfl-combine-harbaugh-haircut-a-household-name-michigan-ohio-state.html

WMU star DE Marshawn Kneeland channels Aidan Hutchinson on quest to climb NFL draft boards (2-28-24): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2024/02/wmu-star-dl-channels-aidan-hutchinson-on-quest-to-climb-nfl-draft-boards.html

2024 Scouting Combine: The most underrated players at this year's event (Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan:  After watching his tape, I’m of the opinion that had Kneeland attended a Power-5 school, we’d be talking about him as a first-round prospect with very little doubt about it. The metrics are impressive enough — last season, he totaled six sacks, three quarterback hits, and 28 quarterback hurries in just 288 pass-rushing reps — but you really have to get to his tape and just watch him completely demolish people all over the place. Kneeland is 6-foot-3 and 275 pounds, and at his best, he moves at about 240 and hits at about 300. The arrow should be pointing straight the heck up with this guy.) (2-28-24):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-scouting-combine-j-j-mccarthy-marshawn-kneeland-underrated/

Lions have had formal meeting with a rising edge rusher Marshawn Kneeland (2-27-24): https://atozsports.com/detroit/lions-have-had-formal-meeting-with-a-rising-edge-rusher-marshawn-kneeland/

NFL Combine preview: 10 edge rushers the Lions should watch (Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan (6-foot-3, 268 pounds):  Kneeland, a Grand Rapids native, is comfortable defending with his hand in the dirt or as a stand-up pass rusher. His speed to power game is his best trait and he hustles all over the field constantly pursuing the ball carrier. Kneeland may be the best run defending edge in this class, which will certainly resonate with the Lions' approach. Right now, he’s more of a pass rusher than a three-down defender, but as he develops his toolbag, he has the potential to elevate his game to impact levels.) (2-26-24):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/2/26/24082612/2024-nfl-combine-preview-10-edge-rushers-detroit-lions-prospects

2024 NFL combine: Detroit Lions could use another pass rusher and DL help (Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan: Marshawn Kneeland dominated the Mid-American Conference for most of the last three seasons. He notched 26 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks in that span, forcing two fumbles this previous campaign. He was great against the run and the pass last season, grading as PFF’s 16th-best edge defender to end his time in Kalamazoo. Kneeland created a career-best 28 hurries while rocking a run-stop win rate of 11% in 2023. The MAC product could be a hot name to watch on Day 2.) (2-24-24):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2024/02/2024-nfl-combine-detroit-lions-could-use-another-pass-rusher-and-dl-help.html

Detroit Lions late-round NFL Draft EDGE targets (Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan:  The local product – who grew up in Grand Rapid, Mich. – should be in high demand on Day 3 of the draft. In his final collegiate campaign in Kalamazoo, the 6-foot-3, 275-pounder posted 57 total tackles, including 7.5 for loss, 4.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.  The Senior Bowl standout was both a highly effective run defender and a relentless, proficient pass-rusher off the edge during his five seasons with the Broncos. While at Western Michigan, Kneeland also showcased the ability to adapt to multiple positions (from an EDGE to a downhill linebacker) and be an every-down defender.) (2-22-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/late-round-edges-lions-could-target-2024-draft

2024 Combine preview: Edge rusher (Combine sleeper to watch: Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan, 6-3, 268.  Kneeland is a terrific athlete and a former high school tight end. He uses his hands really well and has terrific strength off the edge as a hand-in-the-dirt edge or a standup rusher. He's a pretty raw talent with a ton of upside after recording 4.5 sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss this past season for the Broncos.) (2-21-24):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2024-combine-preview-edge-rusher-turner-latu-verse

2024 Senior Bowl: Day 1 notebook from the first day of practices (Players I thought helped themselves _ For context here, my focus during National practice was more on the skill position players and on hte lines during the American session.  Western Michigan DE Marshawn Kneeland–he was the fastest defensive lineman on either team, chip-timed at over 19 MPH during one play. Won a pass rush rep with a very nice inside rip and didn’t get knocked off his path from a pretty good effort at a recovery block.) (1-30-24):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-senior-bowl-day-1-practice-notebook-player-notes/

Senior Bowl Stock Up and Stock Down Day 1: Quinyon Mitchell Solidifies Round 1 Grade (Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan:  Marshawn Kneeland has a reputation as a high-motor defender coming from Western Michigan, and that motor was on full display in Mobile on Day 1. He constantly brought the heat, and at 6’3″, 268 pounds, with 34″ arms, his power element stood out as well. And when Kneeland got a step on blockers, he also showed he could channel flexibility to finish.) (1-30-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2024-senior-bowl-day-1-stock-up-stock-down-draft/

Top EDGE Prospects at the 2024 Senior Bowl: Laiatu Latu, Chris Braswell Lead the Pack (5. Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan:  Marshawn Kneeland is a prototype. At 6’3” and 275 pounds, he has all the size and strength to hold up against the run. This combination gives him the versatility to line up across the defensive line.  As a pass rusher, Kneeland has surprising flexibility and bend while having the counters to swipe away blockers and penetrate the pocket. His impressive athleticism is on full display when tasked with dropping into coverage. While it may not be something you want him to do often, Kneeland’s natural, fluid movement and agility shine through.): (1-29-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-edge-prospects-senior-bowl-draft-2024/

Senior Bowl 2024 EDGE Primer: What You Need To Know (Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan:  A name that’s been buzzing within league circles for months, Kneeland touts an NFL-ready frame with an impressive skill set as a power rusher. His ability to diversify his approach will paint the picture toward his immediate projection.) (1-25-24):  https://www.thedraftnetwork.com/2024/01/25/senior-bowl-2024-edge

Marshawn Kneeland Interview: How Senior Bowl Impacts His NFL Draft Stock (1-25-24):  https://www.thedraftnetwork.com/2024/01/25/marshawn-kneeland-senior-bowl-nfl-draft-interview

2024 NFL draft: Bowl season EDGE big board (10. Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan - What stands out: Long-armed power and football IQ) (12-22-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-bowl-season-edge-big-board/

2024 NFL Draft Stock – Week 16 (Up - Marshawn Kneeland, DT, Western Michigan:  Kneeland played well against the run for Western Michigan in 2023, recording 57 tackles. He tied his career high in sacks with 4.5 and two forced fumbles. As a sophomore in 2021, Kneeland had 4.5 sacks. Kneeland received an invitation to the Senior Bowl and he could rise with a good week there.) (12-19-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2024stock_16.php

2023 College Football All-MAC Team: Bowling Green TE Harold Fannin Jr., Toledo CB Quinyon Mitchell and more (EDGE: Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan Broncos) (12-10-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2023-all-mac-team-bowling-green-harold-fannin-jr-toledo-quinyon-mitchell

CFB Bowl Scouting: Marshawn Kneeland Earns Senior Bowl Invite, Mitchell Evans Headlines 2025 TE Class (Marshawn Kneeland, DL, Western Michigan:  A long and powerful defensive lineman, Marshawn Kneeland was phenomenal for the Broncos this season. He has the size and play strength to be utilized all over the defensive line. His efforts earned him an invite to the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl.  As a 5-tech, Kneeland displayed good bend for his size. His pass-rush moves were effective, and he has the acceleration to finish wins with sacks. He excels at setting the edge and then shedding blocks to make the play. Kneeland doesn’t get washed out of plays and will be a plus-run defender early on in his career.  Kneeland’s a loose athlete who was essentially used as a defensive chess piece for Western Michigan. The athleticism he has is so freaky that Kneeland looked natural dropping back into coverage at over 270 pounds. His hips are incredibly fluid, too.  As an interior rusher, Kneeland shows off the ability to convert speed to power and penetrate the pocket. He overwhelms guards with his athleticism and power, consistently wreaking havoc from the inside. In every game I watched, Kneeland was the best player on the field, and his traits will translate well at the next level.  I have a second-round grade on Kneeland, and a good pre-draft process will solidify him as a high pick.) (12-6-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-cfb-bowl-scouting-2024-nfl-draft-prospects/

College Football: 10 highest-graded edge defenders ahead of Week 12 (3. MARSHAWN KNEELAND, WESTERN MICHIGAN BRONCOS - Overall grade: 89.3, Snaps played: 503.  Kneeland ranks second at his position in defensive stops (34) and has earned grades above 81.0 as both a run defender and pass-rusher.) (11-17-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-10-highest-graded-edge-defenders-ahead-of-week-12

College Football Week 9: PFF Team of the Week and Player Awards (EDGE: Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan) (10-30-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-9-pff-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2023

Week 9 College Football Team of the Week: Marvin Harrison Jr. Once Again Proves Heisman Candidacy (Defensive Line: Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan.  Playing all over the defensive front for Western Michigan, Marshawn Kneeland was truly terrific, no matter where he lined up against Eastern Michigan. Kneeland rushed his way to three sacks and four total tackles for loss, doing most of his damage by working from the outside in, and beating any offensive lineman in front of him at will.) (10-29-23):  https://collegefootballnetwork.com/week-9-college-football-team-of-the-week-2023/



Posted by LionsFan at 10:17 AM

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