Kedric Golston II
Bio
Recruiting
Scouting Report
Kedric Golston II is a well-regarded EDGE prospect with a promising frame and notable athletic bloodlines, as his father played at Georgia and had a long NFL career. A Tennessee commit, he projects to the versatile 'LEO' hybrid defensive end/outside linebacker position where his athleticism can be showcased.
Physical Profile
Golston possesses a solid frame for an EDGE player, listed between 6-foot-2 and 6-foot-3 and weighing in the 235-pound range. This build gives him the flexibility to play as a stand-up rusher or with his hand in the dirt. His body type suggests he has the potential to add significant mass and strength at the collegiate level, possibly growing into a full-time defensive end or a five-technique.
Play Style
On film, Golston plays a versatile and attacking style. He is comfortable operating from both a two-point and three-point stance. He demonstrates good initial burst off the line of scrimmage and shows the flexibility to bend around the edge. His comfort in a scheme similar to what Tennessee runs should allow for a quicker transition to the college game.
Strengths
- Positional versatility is a key asset; he has experience at outside linebacker and defensive end, fitting the modern hybrid EDGE role perfectly for Tennessee's scheme.
- Strong football pedigree, being the son of an 11-year NFL veteran, Kedric Golston Sr., who is also his high school coach, suggesting a high football IQ and advanced understanding of the game.
- Good functional athleticism for his size, allowing him to be effective in space and when rushing the passer from a two-point stance.
- Plays with a high motor and has a nose for the big play, as evidenced by scoring the lone touchdown in a 7-0 playoff victory.
Areas to Improve
- Needs to continue developing a diverse set of pass-rush moves to consistently defeat SEC-caliber offensive tackles.
- Will need to add strength and mass to his frame to effectively set the edge against the run at the Power Five level without sacrificing his athleticism.
- Lacks elite measurable data from national camps or combines, making his ceiling and athletic testing numbers a slight unknown against top-tier competition.
College Projection
Golston is projected to be a multi-year contributor for Tennessee at the LEO position. Given his frame and athletic background, he could see early playing time on special teams and in situational pass-rushing downs as a freshman. With development in a college strength and conditioning program, he has the potential to become a reliable starter in the SEC with All-Conference upside by his third year.
NFL Outlook
As a four-star prospect with an NFL pedigree and a projectable frame for a premium position, Golston has a clear path to the NFL. His development in technique and his ability to add good weight will be critical. If he maximizes his potential at Tennessee and becomes a productive pass rusher in the SEC, he projects as a mid-round NFL Draft selection with the potential to rise based on performance and pre-draft testing.
Best Fit
Golston is an excellent fit for a modern, multiple-front defensive scheme that utilizes a hybrid EDGE rusher. Tennessee's 'LEO' position is a perfect match, allowing him the freedom to rush the passer, drop into coverage occasionally, and utilize his athleticism in space. A team that values versatility and can be patient with his physical development will maximize his skills.