Kendal Daniels Draft Grade | Round 4, Pick 34 | FanVerdicts

D-

Bottom 12%Pick Grade

Pick Context

Market Value

Significant Reach

Position

LB · Value Position

Decision Grade reflects market consensus at the moment of the pick. Teams often have private information the consensus does not.

Scouting Report

Big Board Rank: #228 · Day 3 Sleeper

Kendal Daniels enters the 2026 NFL Draft as a developmental linebacker prospect who carved out a solid role in Oklahoma's defensive system over three seasons. Originally recruited as a 3-star prospect, Daniels worked his way up from special teams contributor to rotational linebacker, showcasing consistent improvement in coverage skills and run defense. His draft stock has been built on reliable tackling, strong football IQ, and versatility to play both inside and outside linebacker positions. However, limited elite athleticism and inconsistent pass rush production have kept him projected as a late-round developmental pick who could contribute immediately on special teams while working toward a depth role in the right defensive system.

Strengths

+Excellent instincts in zone coverage allow him to consistently find the football and break on passing lanes, leading to multiple interceptions over his final two seasons.

+Fundamentally sound tackler who wraps up consistently and rarely allows yards after contact, showing proper form and leverage in open field situations.

+High football IQ enables him to quickly diagnose plays and communicate adjustments to teammates, often seen directing traffic pre-snap in Oklahoma's defense.

+Versatile skill set allows deployment as both a traditional middle linebacker and in nickel packages as an extra coverage defender over slot receivers.

+Strong work ethic and preparation habits have earned praise from coaches, consistently showing up prepared for opposing offensive tendencies and formations.

+Reliable in short-yardage and goal line situations where his gap discipline and ability to take on lead blockers creates opportunities for teammates.

+Effective blitzer from interior positions, showing good timing and ability to find creases in pass protection schemes when sent on delayed rushes.

+Above-average range in coverage allows him to handle tight ends and running backs in man-to-man situations without being a liability.

+Special teams contributor throughout college career with strong coverage skills and willingness to sacrifice his body on kick and punt coverage units.

+Leadership qualities emerged as a senior, becoming a vocal leader in the linebacker room and helping develop younger players.

+Shows good hand usage when shedding blocks, using active hands to keep offensive linemen from securing clean contact.

NFL Comparison: Blake Cashman

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Kendal Daniels

Pick Context

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