Top 20 NFL Draft Prospects: Kenneth Grant

Collegiate Accolades

Grant was an important player for the Wolverines in his freshman season, playing in all 14 games on special teams and defensive line. He was included on Bruce Feldman’s annual list of college football “freaks.” During his sophomore year, Grant made what was hailed as “one of the best plays ever” by chasing down Penn State running back Kaytron Allen and successfully making the tackle. He helped the team to become national champions and was named to the Second-team All-Big Ten Conference. In Grant’s junior year, he earned another Second-team All-Big Ten honors and was named a Third-team AP All-American.

Scouting Report Summary

Grant is a physically imposing nose tackle with a powerful, broad frame. He’s got a wide chest, a thick lower body, and long arms that help him control the trenches. Versatility is one of his strong points as he is capable of lining up across multiple positions in both odd and even fronts. When his pad level is right, Grant can absorb or split double teams, showcasing the kind of raw strength and leverage that clogs lanes and disrupts blocking schemes. He plays with heavy hands, often jolting offensive linemen off balance with a violent club move and a strong arm-over release as a two-gapper.

While his first-step quickness and lower-body flexibility aren’t elite, Grant compensates with powerful strikes. He wins through physicality rather than finesse. His range in pursuit is limited, but when the action stays in his space, he’s a brawler with disruptive potential. He flashed that upside in a standout performance during Michigan’s upset win over Ohio State, and with further refinement in hand usage and pad discipline, Grant has the tools to evolve into a tone-setting force up front.

Strengths

Gap-controlling run defender: Excels at controlling both sides of his blocker to plug running lanes.

Strong at the point of attack: Shows the ability to disrupt offensive linemen immediately off the snap.

Versatile role player: Able to adapt to various defensive schemes and positions across the line, adding to his value in multiple fronts.

Physical presence in the middle: Can create chaos in the interior, making it difficult for offensive linemen to control him.

Improved at disengaging blockers: With his power and length, he has moments where he sheds blockers effectively, especially when he uses his hands well.

Consistently draw double teams: Frequently commands double teams with his size and power, freeing up teammates.

Shows relentless effort: A high-motor player who stays active from snap to whistle.

Weaknesses

Plays with too much height: Tends to play upright, which limits his ability to gain leverage.

Not a great pass rusher: When it comes to pass rushing, Grant offers too little.

Lacks lateral quickness: Has difficulty adjusting quickly to sudden movement or misdirection.

NFL Combine Results