Penn State has a long history of producing high-level linebackers, and Kobe King is the next name looking to make his mark in the NFL. A physical and instinctive defender, King has steadily developed into one of the most reliable linebackers in college football. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, let’s break down his strengths, weaknesses, and overall draft projection.
Strengths
Run Defense: King thrives against the run, showing strong gap discipline and the ability to shed blocks effectively. He plays with great leverage and possesses the power to take on offensive linemen without getting overpowered. His ability to diagnose plays quickly allows him to be a force against the ground game.
Football IQ & Instincts: One of King’s greatest assets is his football intelligence. He consistently reads plays well and takes efficient angles to the ball carrier. His ability to anticipate routes also helps him in pass coverage, allowing him to break up plays before they develop.
Tackling Ability: King is a sure tackler who rarely allows ball carriers to break free. His form and technique stand out, ensuring he limits yards after contact. Whether in open space or near the line of scrimmage, King is reliable when bringing down opponents.
Weaknesses
Coverage Skills: While King has improved in pass coverage, he can struggle against quicker running backs and tight ends in man-to-man situations. He will need to refine his footwork and improve his fluidity in coverage to become a true three-down linebacker in the NFL.
Athleticism & Range: Though solid in short-area quickness, King lacks elite sideline-to-sideline speed. This could limit his ability to be a high-impact coverage linebacker in the pros, making scheme fit an important factor for his success.
Draft Projection
King projects as a mid-to-late-round draft pick, likely falling between the third and fifth rounds. His ability to defend the run and his high football IQ make him an attractive option for teams looking for a smart and physical linebacker. If he can improve his coverage skills leading up to the draft, he could climb draft boards and become a valuable contributor at the next level.
With a strong pre-draft process, King has the potential to follow in the footsteps of former Penn State linebackers who have made a lasting impact in the NFL.
