Measurables
6'4", 340 pounds
40 time: 5.55 seconds
225 bench: 19 reps
Broad jump: 94"
20-yard shuttle: 5.06 seconds
3-cone drill: 8.72 seconds
Awards
2013 Freshman All-American
2015 All-SEC Third Team
Summary
Denver Kirkland played for three seasons at Arkansas, where he was instrumental in helping Alex Collins and Jonathan Williams both rush for over 1,000 yards in 2014 and become the first Arkansas running back tandem to do so since 2007. Kirkland was a coveted high school recruit and chose Bret Bielema's Razorbacks over a host of other top schools.
Kirkland's main feature is his massive size. He is every bit of 340 pounds right now and is difficult to deal with in the run game. He has a great first punch off the line and can sustain blocks through the play, taking a defender totally out of the picture. His main trouble is that he is a waist-bender and doesn't sink his hips to anchor himself, and so he can be beaten by speed and advanced pass rushing moves.
While the mammoth prospect began his career at guard, he was moved to left tackle for his senior season and did exceptionally well, as Arkansas had a terrific offense and their usual stellar running game with Collins. He's not quick enough to man the tackle spot permanently in the NFL, but he does have experience there, giving him the positional versatility the Raiders always look for.
In order to make an impact in the NFL, Kirkland must show he can deal with both power and speed rushers and use his size to his advantage rather than just pancaking everyone with his huge upper body.That being said, Denver Kirkland is an ideal fit for a bullying power run scheme and has a ton of potential if he tightens up his technique.
While I can't find an embeddable highlight video, this is a really well-done highlight reel from our friends at NFL Films so check it out.
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