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Selection 2.43 Benardrick McKinney ILB Miss. St.

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Very interesting pick by Ricky & Billy ?
I dunno, he does look much more like a 3-4 edge guy than an ILB (in either a 3-4 or 4-3). Could the Texans have viewed this guy as a poor mans Bud Dupree, somebody who RAC & Vrab could coach up to play over and cover the TE in passing downs and therefor be the SOLB they wanted and needed
in their defense ? That would have given them the opportunity to leave Dupree on the Board @ 16, taken Johnson (the BPA), and then made a beeline for Bernard in the 2nd round. But this is an intriguing pick and it will be interesting to see how the Texans use him ?
 
One pro scout's take on McKinney...

Junior entry. Three-year starter from Tunica Mississippi. Improved his overall level of play throughout the 2014 season. An easy mover who creates a tremendous amount of force in short areas. His physical gifts outweigh his skill set, but he is steadily improving the nuances and reading ability of the linebacker position. Versatile athlete who lines up all over the field, capable of wearing different hats. Explosive and fast athlete in space. Converts speed into power quickly. Functionally strong in short areas, can deliver a violent pop to blockers and ball carriers. Incredible wingspan and reach as a tackler. Wraps up his target after powerful initial contact. Effective Blitzer. Can get off blockers using different ways to shake free. Bends well and can play a low pad level game. Strong hands to grip and rip off a blocker. Effective in coverage with loose helps and quick acceleration. Has the speed to hang with receivers in space.

Better athlete than he is a football player. Delayed reads when in traffic. Doesn't keep his head on the swivel and can be fooled by play action and counters. Takes too many false steps. Inconsistent to get himself in position to make plays against the inside run.
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Since some of you value Lance Zierline's opinion, he has him as the 2nd ranked LB in the draft, behind TCU's Paul Dawson & ahead of UCLA's Eric Kendricks...

2. ILB Benardrick McKinney, Mississippi State
Zierlein's bottom line: Productive, steady performer in the middle with above-average size and length for the position but below-average agility. McKinney plays within the scheme and finds himself near the play frequently. He plays with strength and has an ability to take on offensive linemen and get downhill to finish his tackles. McKinney looks like an above-average NFL inside linebacker who could become part of a really good defense. He lacks star-making talent, though.
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NastyNate said:
I thought we already had a slow plodding ILB that couldn't cover running backs?
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It appears versatility is a positive attribute here. He may not be the cover LB, but could act as a spy or even move to the edge on third downs. But a high motor just adds to the problems our opponents will face.
 
I just re-watched 5 of his games. I was hoping I would see something I didn't see before and it would give me some hope. Meh! :toropalm:
 
mussop said:
I just re-watched 5 of his games. I was hoping I would see something I didn't see before and it would give me some hope. Meh! :toropalm:
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That really doesn't say anything...

...like what you were looking for in McKinney that you didn't see
or why he won't fit what RAC expects from his middle guys and why McKinney can't do it
or why Vrabel can't coach him up to read the keys he needs to read in our defense.
 
ObsiWan said:
That really doesn't say anything...

...like what you were looking for in McKinney that you didn't see
or why he won't fit what RAC expects from his middle guys and why McKinney can't do it
or why Vrabel can't coach him up to read the keys he needs to read in our defense.
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I see him as his best days are ahead . I see him getting bigger , stronger , and faster . I think RAC doesn't like 5'10 to 6'0 LBs .
 
Honoring Earl 34 said:
I see him as his best days are ahead . I see him getting bigger , stronger , and faster . I think RAC doesn't like 5'10 to 6'0 LBs .
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I used to think short LBs were at a disadvantage because they couldn't see into the backfield with all those big bodies in front of them, but Demeco is just a hair over 6' and he is one of the best I've ever seen at diagnosing plays. Maybe he's the exception to the rule.
 
mussop said:
Stop watching highlights to form opinions. EVERY player looks good in highlights. Watch these games and then tell me what you think.

VIDEO
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I did.....I watched the first play in the first film from the first you that you posted. he didn't get there. But I thought, where will VW be about that time, and where will JJ Watt be. That QB is DEAD.
 
Banging heads in the SEC is good enough for me. Like all the reports state, he is still somewhat raw, but gets by on athleticism - thats a good thing. Once an NFL staff get to coach him up especially Vrabel he should get better. He will get stronger.

So many thrilled about Johnson yet down on a pick that will help immediately? Wierd.
 
Uncle Rico said:
Banging heads in the SEC is good enough for me. Like all the reports state, he is still somewhat raw, but gets by on athleticism - thats a good thing. Once an NFL staff get to coach him up especially Vrabel he should get better. He will get stronger.

So many thrilled about Johnson yet down on a pick that will help immediately? Wierd.
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The draft is like planting seeds and some have already counted their tomatoes or declared they won't grow .
 
Uncle Rico said:
Banging heads in the SEC is good enough for me. Like all the reports state, he is still somewhat raw, but gets by on athleticism - thats a good thing. Once an NFL staff get to coach him up especially Vrabel he should get better. He will get stronger.

So many thrilled about Johnson yet down on a pick that will help immediately? Wierd.
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How different is McKinney from Akeem Dent or Mike Mohamed? How much of an "upgrade" is this?

Not that I'm down on the pick, just asking.
 
thunderkyss said:
I used to think short LBs were at a disadvantage because they couldn't see into the backfield with all those big bodies in front of them, but Demeco is just a hair over 6' and he is one of the best I've ever seen at diagnosing plays. Maybe he's the exception to the rule.
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LB's might look into the backfield a little bit, but generally speaking their first reads are the O'line/TE.

And it's not like they are 6ft and looking over a 6'6" wall...There is plenty of alleys for guys to see and also, if the o-line is standing straight up the it's not a very good oline.
 
thunderkyss said:
How different is McKinney from Akeem Dent or Mike Mohamed? How much of an "upgrade" is this?

Not that I'm down on the pick, just asking.
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He's an upgrade. His ceiling is higher. Right now though he has been relying on athleticisim. If he's going to be an above average ILB he needs to develop a little more.

I think under Vrabel we will get the most out of him that we can.
 
hradhak said:
He's an upgrade. His ceiling is higher. Right now though he has been relying on athleticisim. If he's going to be an above average ILB he needs to develop a little more.

I think under Vrabel we will get the most out of him that we can.
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http://www.ourlads.com/ncaa-football-depth-charts/player/benardrick-mckinney/94020

Fourth year junior entry. All American. Top tier athlete for the position that gradually improved his overall level of play throughout the 2014 season. Was also an accomplished high school quarterback and basketball player. McKinney is one of the most explosive 250 pound athletes in the nation. He is an easy mover that creates a tremendous amount of force in short areas. His physical gifts outweigh his skill set at the moment, but he is steadily improving the nuances and reading ability of the linebacker position. His upside and potential are among the best in this draft class.

-David Syvertsen/Ourlads Scout
McKinney is a natural playmaker and overall leader. Despite his impressive production on one of the stingier front-seven’s in the country, he’s only just beginning to tap into his potential. Very high ceiling for this kid but he also carries some risk because he still has a ways to go developmentally. Very versatile in terms of projection at the next level as he has the size and athleticism to play ILB, OLB in a 34 or DE in a 43.Shows high upside as an inside and outside pass rusher, can bend off the edge and penetrate up the middle. He’s far more NFL-ready to play the run than the pass, but certainly has the talent to improve his range in coverage. Above average open field tackler but more effective in the box. High character guy who has an infectious passion for the game.
- RIck Stavig/ Ourlads Scout

A physical specimen that owns the middle of the field. A real run stuffer. Plays with sudden movements, gets started right off the snap. Huge linebacker with great power and explosiveness. He is always around the ball, by using his quick feet and long arms to get around linemen. Owns the middle of the field, with hard wrap up tackles. Has great length and straight line speed to play coverage. Was used as an every down player that constantly made highlight reel plays. Shows the frame and athleticism of a high level NFL linebacker.
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thunderkyss said:
I used to think short LBs were at a disadvantage because they couldn't see into the backfield with all those big bodies in front of them, but Demeco is just a hair over 6' and he is one of the best I've ever seen at diagnosing plays. Maybe he's the exception to the rule.
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Instinct, some players have it, some don't. Demeco has it, I' don't think McKinney does.
 
Texian said:
Instinct, some players have it, some don't. Demeco has it, I' don't think McKinney does.
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He sure did. Maybe it was common knowledge about Demeco's instincts. But i had no idea. I was pleasantly surprised to see him set up camp in the offensive backfired game after game as a rookie.

Hopefully McKinney can surprise us as well.
 
TejasTom said:
They must have, he lead the team in tackles the last 2 years.
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I have no doubt that he can contribute. Where I have my doubts is in his ability in pass coverage. If he cant do that , he's a one or two down , base defense player.
A second round pick is a steep price to pay for that type of player , then factor in the picks it cost to move up .... They paid a steep price.

Anyone have the numbers for how often the Texans were in base vs nickel & dime packages last year ?? (Playoffs??!)
 
Corrosion said:
I have no doubt that he can contribute. Where I have my doubts is in his ability in pass coverage. If he cant do that , he's a one or two down , base defense player.
A second round pick is a steep price to pay for that type of player , then factor in the picks it cost to move up .... They paid a steep price.

Anyone have the numbers for how often the Texans were in base vs nickel & dime packages last year ?? (Playoffs??!)
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Not if they use him as a rusher.
 
Honoring Earl 34 said:
As of right now you are wrong on both .
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Kind of, Aundray Bruce did have a better first year than Clowney. As for McKinney we will see. However if you consistently bite on and are sucked in on most play action, odds are doubtful you will see the end of your first contract.
 
Texian said:
Kind of, Aundray Bruce did have a better first year than Clowney. As for McKinney we will see. However if you consistently bite on and are sucked in on most play action, odds are doubtful you will see the end of your first contract.
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If you say so .
 
xtruroyaltyx said:
Not if they use him as a rusher.
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Who's coming off the field for him to replace ?! Watt , Crick , Mercilus , Clowney or Wilfork ?


I read somewhere in this thread that OB said his position will be ILB ....


Like I said , I don't dislike the player , just the value he presents as a draft pick where he was taken and what it took to get there.


Maybe he makes me eat my words and turns into an All Pro player.
 
Corrosion said:
Who's coming off the field for him to replace ?! Watt , Crick , Mercilus , Clowney or Wilfork ?


I read somewhere in this thread that OB said his position will be ILB ....


Like I said , I don't dislike the player , just the value he presents as a draft pick where he was taken and what it took to get there.


Maybe he makes me eat my words and turns into an All Pro player.
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Bottom line... we haven't had a consistent tackler at LB outside of healthy Cushing since DeMeco left. And Cush hasn't been healthy since then very much.

Mckinney represents a HUGE upgrade from what we've grown accustomed to when it comes to tackling the guy who has the football.
 
Corrosion said:
Who's coming off the field for him to replace ?! Watt , Crick , Mercilus , Clowney or Wilfork ?


I read somewhere in this thread that OB said his position will be ILB ....


Like I said , I don't dislike the player , just the value he presents as a draft pick where he was taken and what it took to get there.


Maybe he makes me eat my words and turns into an All Pro player.
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You need multiple pass rushers. If clowney isn't healthy or mercilus isn't getting it done then? Crick? Really?

This is a team that has struggled for a pass rush outside of watt. Now we're questioning who comes off the field in pass rushing situations? When did that happen?

Really they should be throwing **** at the wall until something sticks at this point.
 
Honoring Earl 34 said:
I see him as his best days are ahead . I see him getting bigger , stronger , and faster . I think RAC doesn't like 5'10 to 6'0 LBs .
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mussop said:
Highlights or film. There is a big difference.
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You're right. Some people look at highlights and get excited about a guy thinking he's going to do that every single time the ball is snapped. Other people look at film and decide a guy isn't going to be anything because it doesn't look like highlights.

It's too early to declare either one the winner.
 
CloakNNNdagger said:
In his post Draft interview, OB specifically identified his position for the Texans as ILB.
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Thanks for the info.

Based on his skill set I'd say that if he's going to play ILB then we just drafted Cushing's replacement, not the guy who is going to play next to him long term. Not sure which way they are going.

Either way is fine, as long as it goes the way they are planning for it to go.
 
man we haven't even got to OTA's yet and some of you guys acting like we are 3/4 of the way thru another 2-14 season


Gonna be a very long next 4 months... hope I can survive it
 
JB said:
man we haven't even got to OTA's yet and some of you guys acting like we are 3/4 of the way thru another 2-14 season


Gonna be a very long next 4 months... hope I can survive it
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well, you know....
some folk just gotta be drama queens.
:overreact:

:)
 
Bill O’Brien
(on if he is worried about ILB Bernardrick McKinney’s strength) “No, I think with all these young players, when they come in here, they all have to start at a certain level. One of the things with all these guys is they have to do a really good job of getting into our weight room, into our lifting program, adding some strength, getting into our nutrition program, eating properly, all those different things. I don’t get concerned about that because I think all young players, I think one of the big adjustments they all have to make when they get to the professional level is the strength level. I know that Bernardrick will come in here and work hard to get stronger.”

(on McKinney being a good contributor on special teams) “No question. I think with his length, he’s a big guy, a big long guy that can run. The expectation will be for him to come in here and help us on special teams and we believe that he’ll do that.”

(on if McKinney is a three down linebacker in their vision) “In our vision, we feel like he can do some things on third down, we think he’s a versatile player. We’re going to start off at the inside position and teach him that position. Then as time goes on, do some things possibly with him on the outside, but primarily he’ll be an inside linebacker. I do believe that he can do some things on third down, but primarily he’ll be a first and second down inside linebacker and then we’ll go from there.”
 
Playoffs said:
Bill O’Brien
(on if he is worried about ILB Bernardrick McKinney’s strength) “No, I think with all these young players, when they come in here, they all have to start at a certain level. One of the things with all these guys is they have to do a really good job of getting into our weight room, into our lifting program, adding some strength, getting into our nutrition program, eating properly, all those different things. I don’t get concerned about that because I think all young players, I think one of the big adjustments they all have to make when they get to the professional level is the strength level. I know that Bernardrick will come in here and work hard to get stronger.”

(on McKinney being a good contributor on special teams) “No question. I think with his length, he’s a big guy, a big long guy that can run. The expectation will be for him to come in here and help us on special teams and we believe that he’ll do that.”

(on if McKinney is a three down linebacker in their vision) “In our vision, we feel like he can do some things on third down, we think he’s a versatile player. We’re going to start off at the inside position and teach him that position. Then as time goes on, do some things possibly with him on the outside, but primarily he’ll be an inside linebacker. I do believe that he can do some things on third down, but primarily he’ll be a first and second down inside linebacker and then we’ll go from there.”
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So O'Brien knowingly spent a 2 on a two-down LB and special teams help? Seems a tad high.
 
ObsiWan said:
So O'Brien knowingly spent a 2 on a two-down LB and special teams help? Seems a tad high.
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To start with.... I'm sure they expect him to progress from there. With so much nickel being played not uncommon to only have 1 ILB on the field on 3rd down
 
ObsiWan said:
So O'Brien knowingly spent a 2 on a two-down LB and special teams help? Seems a tad high.
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Maybe it speaks to his opinion of the talent we have on the team. We weren't filling holes, but adding depth.
 
thunderkyss said:
Maybe it speaks to his opinion of the talent we have on the team. We weren't filling holes, but adding depth.
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The way they spoke is they can't wait to get him on the weight/nutrition program and start him off slowly with the X's and O's . They think he has a high ceiling .
 
ObsiWan said:
So O'Brien knowingly spent a 2 on a two-down LB and special teams help?
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I'll try bolder font...
(on if McKinney is a three down linebacker in their vision) “In our vision, we feel like he can do some things on third down, we think he’s a versatile player. We’re going to start off at the inside position and teach him that position. Then as time goes on, do some things possibly with him on the outside, but primarily he’ll be an inside linebacker. I do believe that he can do some things on third down, but primarily he’ll be a first and second down inside linebacker and then we’ll go from there.”
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Pro scouts valued his edge potential higher than his ILB.
...has the size and athleticism to play ILB, OLB in a 34 or DE in a 43. Shows high upside as an inside and outside pass rusher, can bend off the edge and penetrate up the middle.
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McKinney's athleticism and size combination gives him the chance to show off his versatility in the NFL, as some teams see him as an outside guy and others as an inside player. Regardless, McKinney should be able to play both. He plays with good instincts and terrific aggression. McKinney is solid in coverage.
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Drafted as an ILB McKinney's primary responsibility will be to fill the A and B Gaps on first and second downs and play special teams..
 
ObsiWan said:
So O'Brien knowingly spent a 2 on a two-down LB and special teams help? Seems a tad high.
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Seems a tad high is what I've been saying about this pick all along and don't forget , it wasn't just a 2nd but a 4th & 6th to make the move up.
 
Corrosion said:
Seems a tad high is what I've been saying about this pick all along and don't forget , it wasn't just a 2nd but a 4th & 6th to make the move up.
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OK, but even had you liked Kendricks (45) or Perryman (48) more than McKinney, a trade up would have been necessary. To get a top ILB, they had to spend those picks.
 
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