Jason Kelce

Kelce worked himself from a walk-on linebacker to potential NFL contributor in five short years. He won the team's Defensive Scout Player of the Year award during a 2006 redshirt season, but made the move to offensive line in 2007 preseason practice, seeing the switch as a path to get onto the field immediately. He nine games at center and guard, and also made three special teams tackles on the year. Kelce then stepped into the starting spot for the next 26 games at left guard, helping build one of the more prolific offenses in the country, before moving to center as a senior and earning his second straight selection as a second-team all-conference pick. There's little not to like about Kelce's toughness, footwork and leadership. There are scouts who won't like his relatively svelte build, limiting his value to the teams using zone-blocking schemes. But it only takes one team to appreciate his Tom Nalen-like skills for him to end up a late-round pick.

strengths

Plays with real attitude, attacking defenders, delivering a strong punch and blocking through the whistle. Resets hands multiple times in pass protection and run blocking. Mirrors defenders with lateral quickness and good knee bend. Better anchor than expected given his size. Sustains and puts his man to the ground. Fair quickness to the second level, runs to defenders and extends arms to knock them backward. Gets the angle when blocking on bootlegs and stretch plays, even when engaged. Comes off double-team to reach linebackers coming into the hole. Willing downfield blocker, hits multiple targets without missing. Cleans up piles. Reliable shotgun snapper.

weaknesses

His relatively slight frame means he must widen his base to be effective against strong defensive tackles. Drive-blocking is not his strong suit. Must be more aware of guards needing help instead of standing around. Does not have elite straight-line speed for the position. Needs to work on picking up twists inside.

Cleveland Heights High School: Two-time all-league selection for head coach Mike Jones

league defensive MVP

made 105 tackles at linebacker as a senior

also recorded 33 tackles for loss and returned a fumble for a touchdown

averaged 9.5 yards per carry as a running back.

Jason D. Kelce: Born Nov. 5, 1987

son of Ed and Donna Kelce

uncle Don Blalock played football at Purdue and grandfather Don Blalock played football at Ohio.