2014 NFL Draft Profile: Khalil Mack, OLB Buffalo
By Adam Carlson
Nov 29, 2013; Buffalo, NY, USA; Buffalo Bulls linebacker Khalil Mack (46) waits for the snap against the Bowling Green Falcons at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Khalil Mack is a small school prospect out of the University at Buffalo, The State University of New York. Despite him being a small school guy, he has played at an extremely high level during his time there.
Mack played four years at Buffalo before declaring for the draft this year. His 6’3″ and 248 pound frame is more than adequate to make him a candidate for linebacker in either a 4-3 or 3-4 defense. He accumulated an FBS record 75 tackles for loss and 16 forced fumbles over his career at Buffalo. He also earned the MAC Defensive Player of the Year and Jack Lambert Linebacker of the Year awards.
Here are his statistics over four seasons at Buffalo:
Oct 19, 2013; Buffalo, NY, USA; Buffalo Bulls linebacker Khalil Mack (46) before a game against the Massachusetts Minutemen at University of Buffalo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
49 games played
186 solo tackles
327 total tackles
75 tackles for a loss
28.5 sacks
4 interceptions
2 defensive touchdowns
16 forced fumbles
22 passes defended
Our friends at Bleacher Report compare him to Washington Redskins linebacker Brian Orakpo. Except for the major fact that Mack doesn’t seem to have the same tendency when it comes to injuies as Orakpo.
Strengths
- Huge motor, never stops
- Explosive off the snap
- Great at reading defenses
- Powerful hitter
- Holds contain well
- Good in pass coverage
Weaknesses
- Played against lesser competition at the college level
- Needs to wrap up more when tackling
- Needs to develop pass rush moves more
- Did not participate in Senior Bowl despite full health
Fit For The Vikings
The Vikings will be looking to fill a hole at outside linebacker with the release of Erin Henderson and the departure of Marvin Mitchell and Desmond Bishop.
My Take
I’m a big fan of this kid. He would be a day one starter in Minnesota who could play at a high level right away. Drafting him would fill a big need on this team, but others may say quarterback or defensive back are more important holes to fill. However, Mack is one of those players that the Vikings should heavily consider on draft day.