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 NCAA Scouting – Player Profile:
Kenny Phillips, S
by Jody Jamieson
28/2/2008
In a year where the safety pool is perhaps as poor as it has been in recent memory, there is at least one guy capable of coming into the league and making a big impact. Following in the footsteps of such Miami Hurricanes safeties such Ed Reed and the late Sean Taylor, Kenny Phillips is looking pretty impressive. Coming out of college as a junior, Phillips is a guy who can almost certainly make an early and big impact for a team needing help over the top.
Coming into the Draft as the undisputed number one safety prospect, there will be a few teams who will have Phillips firmly on their radar. He weighs in at 208lbs and could afford to put on a few more pounds to become an even bigger force in the run game without compromising his athleticism or quickness.
 What we like about Phillips
Phillips is a clever, hard hitting safety who can blitz, cover or stop the run. Plays as physically as a linebacker in the run game, and has great hands to go up and snag an interception in the passing game. Posesses good speed and excellent athleticism. Will be a great asset in defending the pass regardless of whether in zone or man coverage. Expect to see him in the box a lot and when he blitzes, he is excellent at flushing the quarterback out of the pocket.
Question marks about Phillips
Phillips has to learn to bide his time and not bite on the play action too early. One big criticism on him was that he could be beaten over the top on a play-fake. He worked well on that in his final year, but will have to keep working hard on his play recognition in the NFL. He also has a tendancy to go for the big play a little often, when making the safe play is a better option.
Highlight of his College Career
In 2006, Kenny Phillips became the first Hurricane in nearly 20 years to record three interceptions in one game in a 20-15 win over Duke. He was named ACC Defensive-back of the week for that performance.
Other Snippets
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At this moment in time, Phillips is the number one safety entering the Draft. Only he and perhaps Oklahoma’s Reggie Smith have a chance of going in Round 1.
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The Hurricanes couching staff commented that they believe Phillips has the build of Sean Taylor, along with the quickness and knowledge of Ed Reed. If that is the case, then this could be quite a prospect!
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Was named USA Today Defensive Player of the Year in high school in 2004, playing for Carol City High in Miami.
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Expect the Bengals, Saints, Bills and Lions to have a real look at him in the first half of the Draft. Could be a perfect fit for the Lions at pick fifteen.
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