There were high expectations for Devon Kennard following his rookie season. As a 5th round pick in the 2014 NFL draft, Kennard appeared to be the best linebacker the Giants had drafted since they selected Jessie Armstead in 1993. Kennard finished the year with 4.5 sacks and displayed the skills necessary to consistently generate pressure off the edge.

Unfortunately the following year Kennard did not meet the expectations that were set following his rookie campaign. He received his lowest grade from ProFootballFocus out of his three seasons he was graded. Coming out of the 2015 season, Kennard had missed 11 games his first two years in the league and had earned a reputation as a fragile player whose career would likely be derailed by injuries.

However, Kennard had a surprising bounce back season last year. For the first time in his career he played in all 16 games and received his highest grade from ProFootballFocus. Yet, one element of his game that appeared missing was his ability to collapse the pocket off the edge. As an edge rusher, Kennard was not effective and the Giants decided to try him out at a new position starting in week 9 against the Eagles. Interior pass rusher.

After watching every pass rushing attempt Kennard made in 2016, it is clear the Giants should continue to develop Kennard as an interior pass rusher. They sorely need someone who can consistently push the pocket and Kennard displayed the strength and occasional quickness to disrupt the quarterback.

Below are a few plays where Kennard shined on the interior of the defensive line during the 2016 season.

Kennard vs Eagles

Kennard vs Bears

Kennard vs Bears

Kennard @ Browns

Kennard @ Steelers