Breaking down why Miami Dolphins linebacker Kyle Louis has been labeled a "draft sleeper."
There has been plenty said about the 13-player draft that the Miami Dolphins pulled off. While there are picks that many have questioned, there is one player who continues to be labeled a "draft sleeper."
That player is Pitt linebacker Kyle Louis. Louis was among the sleeper picks from NFL.com's Gennaro Filice, who said:
"Kyle Louis, linebacker. While Rodriguez projects as a three-down linebacker, Louis could become a sub-package star. The linebacker/safety hybrid excels in coverage, having turned heads at the Senior Bowl with multiple interceptions in a one-on-one drill that typically favors the receiver."
A reason for Filice's comments and his excitement has to do with the Pitt rookie not only being able to play linebacker, but also as a coverage hybrid safety.
What makes the pick so intriguing is that Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley indicated that he would be playing linebacker, but that does not mean the team does not plan to utilize his coverage skills. Hafley was a defensive back expert in his career, and likely saw how beneficial a player like Louis can be.
Louis can be used in many sub packages, which are defensive looks that remove a linebacker to put in another defensive back. If the Dolphins are facing a strong three receiver set in an 11-personnel type of situation, this where the linebacker can shine.
During the Senior Bowl, Louis showcased his coverage skills in a major way, not only preventing receivers from securing the ball, but also intercepting the ball a number of times.
Clearly, Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan saw a lot of promise in being able to utilize the unique skill set that Louis provides.
As a linebacker, he brought in 201 tackles, 10 sacks, and two forced fumbles. However, he also tacked on six interceptions and six passes defended.
Hafley and Sullivan have spoken often about getting in players that can do multiple things, which is why they chose to draft Louis in the fourth round. He was slated to be a third-round selection, but fell to the patient Dolphins in the fourth.
The secondary has needed plenty of help, which is why the Dolphins also drafted San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson at No. 27 overall. However, having players like Louis to complement Johnson could end up being very huge for this Miami team.
Louis has been described as an undersized linebacker, but it could be that his size benefits him more in the safety role. If he can become a sub-package star, the Dolphins may have found one of the biggest sleepers in the draft.