New York Giants 2017 Roster Preview: Linebackers
By Sean Dyer
OLB Devon Kennard
Devon Kennard has had an inconsistent career thus far but has shown flashes of being a playmaking linebacker.
After being selected in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft, Kennard burst onto the scene with 43 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles as a rookie. It appeared that Jerry Reese had finally found a quality starter in the late rounds of the draft.
Unfortunately, a hamstring injury limited Kennard to just 12 games his rookie year. Injuries followed him into his second year and derailed his sophomore season. Now a starter in 2015, Kennard missed seven games with hamstring and foot injuries.
In the nine games he played, Kennard was able to put up 58 total tackles but was unable to register a sack.
Kennard was finally able to shake the injury bug in 2016, appearing in all 16 games. The four linebacker rotation that we’ve mentioned had Kennard starting in nine games. Overall, Kennard totaled 61 tackles and picked up a sack and a forced fumble.
When healthy, Devon Kennard has shown an ability to rush the passer. He even lined up with his hand in the dirt last season. Kennard is athletic and can make plays at or behind the line of scrimmage.
In his contract year, I expect a big year from Kennard. I think he beats his career-high 4.5 sacks and is someone we’re talking about late in the season as a difference-maker on this Giants defense.