The Chargers selected South Carolina edge rusher Kyle Kennard in the fourth round (No. 125 overall pick) in the 2025 NFL Draft on Saturday afternoon.<\/p>\n
“Blessed beyond measures. It’s a dream come true \u2026 it’s kind of something that’s like surreal, so I’ve been taking it all in,” Kennard said.<\/p>\n
Kennard, regarded as a solid prospect in the edge rusher class, was Pro Football Focus’ No. 81 overall prospect.<\/p>\n
Kennard shows a good understanding of how to win as a pass-rusher in varying situations in both odd and even fronts. He is lean and long, which is a plus for arm length but a negative when holding up versus the run. His handwork and footwork show a great baseline to build a successful pass-rush profile in the league as a Day 2 selection.<\/p>\n
The selection of the 23-year-old Kennard gives the Chargers a dynamic young edge rusher in the position room alongside Khalil Mack, Tuli Tuipulotu and Bud Dupree.<\/p>\n
“Khalil is one of the best to ever do it,” Kennard said. “I can’t wait to be under his tutelage, be his teammate, be dependable for him, whatever else I have to do.<\/p>\n
“Just to be alongside one of the greatest ever rush the passer, it’s just an opportunity that I can’t take lightly,” Kennard added.<\/p>\n
Kennard, listed at 6-foot-4 and 254 pounds, played four years at Georgia Tech before transferring to South Carolina.<\/p>\n
Kennard was a monster this past season as he won the Nagurski Trophy as the nation’s top defender and was also the SEC Defensive Player of the Year.<\/p>\n
He was also a Second-Team All-American and First-Team All-SEC selection after tallying 11.5 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.<\/p>\n
“I feel like I bring a good mix of both making plays in the backfield and rushing the passer,” Kennard said. “I feel like a lot of guys offer a great pass-rushing ability and a lot of guys offer great run-stopping ability.<\/p>\n
“I feel like I’m a complete defensive end and I bring it all to the table,” Kennard added.<\/p>\n