2015 NFL Draft: Vikings Take Linebacker Eric Kendricks In Second Round

Rick Spielman is committed to improving the Vikings’ defense. If you don’t believe me, just look at his two picks so far in the 2015 draft.

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Round 1, Spielman beefs up the secondary by taking Michigan State CB Trae Waynes.

Round 2, Spielman gives Mike Zimmer a new Mike linebacker, taking UCLA’s Eric Kendricks.

Yes, Kendricks once lined up alongside current Vikings Sam linebacker Anthony Barr. The Vikings now have a two-thirds Bruins linebacker corps.

The 6-0, 232-pound Kendricks figures to have an easy path to starting at the Mike, with only late-round picks Audie Cole and Michael Mauti standing in his way on the depth chart.

Kendricks not only is a solid tackler, he’s also good in coverage. Though he may not be the most explosive of players, he does have nice range and quick reactions.

Like Trae Waynes, Kendricks also gets high marks for character. The Vikings clearly are putting an emphasis on that factor when making their picks in this draft.

The Kendricks pick now gives the Vikings a potentially very effective nickel package with the two UCLA teammates at linebacker and Captain Munnerlyn concentrating on the slot.

Anything that gets Chad Greenway off the field in passing situations is a good move. Kendricks should give Mike Zimmer the freedom to do that. Kendricks also has the tackling ability to be a good run stuffer at the Mike.

At least one NFL expert is in love with this pick:

Next: Is Trae Waynes Overrated Garbage?

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