Outside of the offensive line, Geoff Collins and Co. put the majority of their recruiting efforts into the defensive line, specifically the edge rushers. Looking at the stats, it’s easy to see why. Tech’s leading sacker from last year? JaQuon Griffin with 2.5 sacks. As a whole, the defensive line accumulated 9.5 sacks.
To help fix the problem, Tech brought on three new edge rushers: Kyle Kennard, Khaya Wright and Jared Ivey.
Kyle Kennard | Riverwood High School
Kennard was the first of the trio to commit to Georgia Tech, announcing on June 12. He is rated as a three-star recruit by both Rivals (5.6) and the 247 Sports Composite (0.8614). Standing at 6-6, 215 pounds, Kennard brings some nice length to the position.
Watching his highlights, Kennard does a good job of using his length to bat away passes and cause general chaos in the passing game. He also does a good job of using his speed to break through the line. Remembering back to his junior film, Kennard was also used in a few different spots, so Collins and Andrew Thacker should have some fun lining Kennard all over the defensive side of the field.
Khaya Wright | South Miami High School
Wright committed to Georgia Tech just a couple weeks after Kennard, on June 25. He is rated as a three-star recruit by Rivals (5.6) and the 247 Sports Composite (0.8605) and is a little smaller than Kennard at 6-3, 200 pounds.
In his film, Wright primarily plays linebacker, which is also where he’s listed on the official roster. He may end up there, but I personally like him as a tweener-type at defensive end and linebacker. Wright plays with a really good burst and eye for the ballcarrier, so whichever position he ends up, he should be good.
Jared Ivey | North Gwinnett High School
Ivey was the final edge player and the highest-rated of the trio. He is rated as a three-star recruit by Rivals (5.7) and a four-star recruit by the 247 Sports Composite (0.8946). Like Kennard, Ivey is very lean and long, standing at 6-6, 215 pounds.
Like the other two players I’ve mentioned, Ivey has a great burst and gets into the pocket very easily. What stood out to me in his film is how well Ivey uses his hands to get off blockers. His film is a lot of fun to watch, and I think he could be a candidate to get some early playing time.
Which new pass rusher is your favorite?