The 2024 NFL Draft is here, and it’s time for 250+ players to make their dreams come true and head to the NFL. That includes Michigan’s Kris Jenkins, who looks to follow in his father’s steps in becoming an NFL star. Here’s everything there is to know about Jenkins.
How Tall Is Kris Jenkins?
Following the end of his college career, Jenkins attended the NFL Combine, where he officially measured in at 6’2 3/4″, which is a little below the NFL average of 6’3 1’4″.
The tallest defensive tackles in the NFL are Raekwon Davis and DeForest Buckner — both standing at 6’7″. The shortest, meanwhile, is Poona Ford at 5’11”.
How Much Does Jenkins Weigh?
At the Combine, Jenkins weighed in at 299 pounds, which is also below the NFL average (310). There is a 78-pound difference, however, between the heaviest and lightest players.
The heaviest is Siaki Ika coming in at 358 pounds. He’s followed by Michael Pierce and Vita Vea at 355 and 347 pounds, respectively. The lightest is Tampa Bay’s Calijah Kancey at 280 pounds. Dre’Mont Jones and William Gholston are close to him at 281.
How Old Is Jenkins?
Born on Oct. 10, 2001, Jenkins is 22 years old and will turn 23 in the first half of his rookie season. Compared to other 2024 NFL Draft prospects, this puts Jenkins on the older side, but his age shouldn’t deter teams from believing he doesn’t have room to grow.
What School Did Jenkins Go To?
Jenkins was born in Olney, Maryland, attending Our Lady of Good Counsel High School. As a senior, he put together 40 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 15 sacks, five pass breakups, three forced fumbles, and one touchdown.
According to 247Sports, he was a three-star prospect, likely due to his lacking size at the time. Jenkins wound up committing to Michigan on July 3, 2019, where he spent his entire college career.
Revisiting Jenkins’ College Career
Things didn’t start fast for Jenkins, playing in just one game as a true freshman. Then, in 2021, he played in all 14 games, starting four of them.
Yet, 2022 was his breakout season, earning 14 starts and compiling 54 tackles and two sacks.
Finally, after returning for his senior season in 2023, Jenkins played a key role in Michigan winning its first national championship in decades.
He earned second-team All-American and All-Big Ten honors as well, appearing in all 15 games, finishing with 37 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and one interception.
Jenkins’ Potential in the NFL
According to PFN draft analyst Ian Cummings, Jenkins is a top-100 player and a potential top-75 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
“Testing could ultimately lift him into the top-50 conversation, and while Round 1 may be rich, he’s safely worthy of Day 2 capital,” said Cummings.
KEEP READING: Ian Cummings’ Full Scouting Report on Kris Jenkins
“As a 3-tech with stunting versatility as a pass rusher and 5-tech functionality on running downs, Jenkins has merit in the early rounds. He’s a stellar early-down defender on day one, and in time, he could grow to be an impact starter in both phases.”
Some of Jenkins’ best attributes include freak physical talent and brute strength, an explosive first step, great lateral athleticism, and much more. His weaknesses, however, include a lack of hand precision, hip flexibility, and lower body quickness.
Looking for everything you need on the 2024 NFL Draft? Make sure to check out the latest draft results, overall team grades, and updated best remaining players available at every position!
