2014 NFL Draft Profile: Kony Ealy, DE Missouri
By Adam Carlson
Oct 26, 2013; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Kony Ealy (47) celebrates after recovering a fumble during the first half of the game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Missouri defensive end Kony Ealy left school after his junior year to enter the 2014 NFL draft. His ability to rush the passer and be effective against the run make him a definite first round talent.
His athleticism is off the charts. He should be one of those players who improves their stock at the combine with excellent numbers and shoots up the draft boards of several teams.
There is little doubt that Ealy will succeed at the next level because of his physical ability.
Here are his statistics over three seasons at Missouri:
38 games played
Oct 19, 2013; Columbia, MO, USA; Florida Gators quarterback Tyler Murphy (3) is hit by Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Kony Ealy (47) while throwing during the second half at Faurot Field. Missouri won 36-17. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
55 solo tackles
95 total tackles
27 tackles for a loss
14 sacks
1 interception
1 defensive touchdown
13 passes defended
4 forced fumbles
Strengths
- Excellent speed rusher
- Has a great spin move
- Quick off the snap
- Excellent pursuit of ball carriers
Weaknesses
- Needs to learn when to disengage with offensive linemen
- Comes off the snap too high
Fit For The Vikings
At the moment, Minnesota needs a starting defensive end since they have failed to lock up Jared Allen or Everson Griffen to a contract.
My Take
Unless the Vikings can lock up a starting defensive end in free agency, Kony would be a player that Minnesota would have to consider with their #8 overall pick.