Eric Kendricks is a professional football player who has been a key figure in the Minnesota Vikings defense, known for his versatility, athleticism, and leadership at the linebacker position. Over the course of his career, Kendricks has established himself as one of the NFL’s top inside linebackers, known for his ability to cover ground, make tackles, and contribute in both the run and pass games.

Early Life and College Career

Eric Kendricks was born on February 29, 1992, in Fresno, California. He attended Hoover High School in Fresno, where he was a standout football player. Kendricks went on to play college football at UCLA, where he built a reputation as one of the most talented linebackers in the country.

At UCLA, Kendricks played for the UCLA Bruins from 2010 to 2014. Over his college career, he was a dynamic player known for his high football IQ, tackling ability, and leadership. Kendricks earned First-Team All-Pac-12 honors in his senior year and was a consensus All-American in 2014. His impressive performance in college, including a standout career tackling record, made him one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 2015 NFL Draft.

NFL Career

Minnesota Vikings (2015–2023)

Kendricks was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2nd round of the 2015 NFL Draft with the 45th overall pick. He quickly became an important part of the Vikings’ defense, thanks to his ability to read the game, tackle effectively, and cover the field.

• Immediate Impact: Kendricks made an immediate impact in his rookie season in 2015, starting 15 games and recording 92 tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 interception. His playmaking ability and leadership on the field earned him a reputation as a rising star in the NFL.
• Pro Bowls and All-Pro Selections: Kendricks’ consistent performances continued throughout his career. He was selected to the Pro Bowl for the first time in 2019 and has been regarded as one of the top inside linebackers in the league. He has also earned All-Pro honors, with a First-Team All-Pro selection in 2019, reflecting his elite play in pass coverage and his ability to contribute to the defense in multiple ways.
• Tackling and Coverage: Kendricks has been known for his incredible ability to cover the entire field, whether it’s tackling ball carriers in the run game or covering tight ends and running backs in pass coverage. He is known for his sideline-to-sideline range, quick decision-making, and ability to read the offense, which allows him to be an asset in both run defense and pass defense.
• Leadership: As a leader on the defense, Kendricks has been a captain for the Vikings, contributing to their high-ranking defense during his tenure. His leadership extends beyond his play on the field, as he is known for his maturity and ability to help guide younger players.
• Vikings Defense: Kendricks was a central figure in the Vikings’ defense during one of the league’s top defensive runs in the late 2010s. The Vikings’ defense was consistently among the best in the NFL, with Kendricks often regarded as one of the most complete linebackers in the league, particularly for his ability to contribute in coverage and the passing game, areas where many linebackers struggle.

Los Angeles Chargers (2023–Present)

In 2023, Kendricks signed with the Los Angeles Chargers after his time with the Vikings. His move to the Chargers marked a new chapter in his career, where he continues to contribute as a versatile and dynamic linebacker. His leadership and experience bring added strength to the Chargers’ defense.

Playing Style and Strengths

• Versatility: Kendricks is known for his versatility. He excels as a coverage linebacker, able to defend against both the run and the pass. His ability to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game, as well as his quick reactions in run defense, make him one of the most well-rounded linebackers in the NFL.
• Football IQ: Kendricks’ high football IQ is one of his most notable traits. His ability to read offenses, diagnose plays, and react quickly gives him a step ahead of most players. His intelligence allows him to anticipate plays and position himself effectively to make tackles and disrupt passing lanes.
• Tackling: Kendricks is an excellent tackler, known for wrapping up ball carriers and stopping them in their tracks. He is often in the right position to make stops and is known for his ability to cover large areas of the field in pursuit of the ball.
• Leadership and Communication: As a leader, Kendricks has been the quarterback of the defense, often responsible for making defensive calls and adjustments. His ability to communicate effectively with teammates on the field helps the defense stay organized and adjust to various offensive schemes.

Career Highlights and Achievements

• Pro Bowls: 1-time Pro Bowl selection (2019)
• First-Team All-Pro: 1-time First-Team All-Pro (2019)
• Second-Team All-Pro: 1-time Second-Team All-Pro (2017)
• Vikings Leadership: Served as a defensive captain and leader during his tenure with the Vikings
• Tackles: Kendricks is consistently among the team leaders in tackles, regularly posting over 100 tackles per season.

Summary

• Position: Inside Linebacker
• NFL Teams: Minnesota Vikings (2015–2023), Los Angeles Chargers (2023–Present)
• Pro Bowls: 1-time Pro Bowl selection (2019)
• All-Pro Selections: 1-time First-Team All-Pro (2019), 1-time Second-Team All-Pro (2017)
• Leadership: Known for his leadership and communication on defense, helping guide his teams to success
• Key Strengths: Tackling, coverage ability, football IQ, versatility, and leadership.

Eric Kendricks is regarded as one of the most complete linebackers of his generation. His exceptional ability to cover both the pass and the run, along with his leadership and intelligence on the field, have made him a key player for the teams he’s been a part of, most notably the Minnesota Vikings and now the Los Angeles Chargers.