Payton Kirkland

A big body with some functional athleticism. Owns a wider base. Believed to be just under 6-foot-6, 350 pounds coming out of junior season. Blessed with some length in the arms. Power-based player that is a solid drive blocker. Packs a strong punch and has won with his upper body plenty of times on Friday nights as he pushes would-be tacklers and pass rushers to the side. Has shown that he can get to the second level and find a linebacker when needed. Has worked through a different pass sets over the years and has an effective quickstep for someone his size. However, must keep improving as a pass blocker, especially if he’s going to be tasked with trying to fend off the twitched-up front seven players that call the SEC home these days. Likely will need a few years to rework the body and add strength in the core, but has the makeup of someone that can be molded into a multi-year starter at a Power 5 program with the right coaching. Will be viewed by some as a tackle at the next level, but could also find a home at one of the guard spots, which isn't a bad thing as position versatility is always valuable. Rare measurables could eventually have him on the radar of NFL scouts.