Verone McKinley III is a hard-hitting safety that could help fix the Eagle’s defensive back woes. In the 2022 draft, the Eagles could finally fix their issue by selecting the Oregon Ducks’ safety.
Oregon Ducks Career
Verone McKinley III had one heck of a career with the Oregon Ducks. The 5 foot and 11 inches and weighing 194 pounds safety got his opportunity as a sophomore (2019) where he recorded 46 total tackles, 2 pass deflections, and 4 interceptions. During the pandemic shortened season in 2020, Mckinley was only able to play in 7 games but was able to match the numbers of the previous season. Mckinley would be able to record 41 tackles, 2 pass deflections, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 interception. During his junior year, McKinley was able to show up and perform recording 77 total tackles, 1 forced fumble, and 6 interceptions.
During Verone McKinley III’s time in Oregon, he was able to collect a few accolades. Some of these accolades include consensus All American, Jim Thorpe award finalist, Associated Press All American, AP All PAC 12 first team, and Coaches PAC 12 All-Conference team.
Strengths
Good communicator with a pro demeanor. Allows quarterback’s eyes to show him the way. Hips/feet to match route breaks when playing over the slot. Instant drive acceleration to close on the throw. Hits pass-catchers with everything he has to knock the ball loose. Excellent feel for playmaking angles to the football.
Weakness
Size and length are on the lower end of the NFL spectrum. Short arms lead to inconsistent finishing on tackles. Loses run contain when playing near the box. Overpowered when matched with size in coverage. Gets greedy and tempted out of position at times.
How Could Verone McKinley Help?
Verone McKinley III is a hard-hitting safety that the Eagles have been looking for, ever since Malcolm Jenkins was released. The plan was for K’von Wallace to become the next star at safety for the team but so far panned outright. Verone McKinley III could change that right away and can make an impact in years to come. On top of his hard-hitting skills, McKinley was able to be a ball hawk and proved it with the 6 interceptions in his final year at Oregon.
While Verone McKinley most definitely won’t be selected in the 1st round, he is more likely to be picked on day 2 or 3 of the draft. He would be a perfect 4th or 5th rounder that Howie Roseman could scoop up if he drops that low.
Eric Williamson is the host of the Union podcast Full Time Philly and also contrinutes to many of the Union coverage. He is a huge fan of all the 4 major Philly teams on top of music too.
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