NASHVILLE, Tenn. — With the No. 150 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers selected defensive lineman Kingsley Keke out of Texas A&M.
"It feels amazing," said Keke via phone after waiting two days to get drafted in the fifth round. "I'm blessed."
For the Packers, the feeling is mutual. Green Bay Packers Southwest college scout Charles Walls said he'd been on the Packers' radar for a while and he's glad Keke came to them.
"I'm truly excited about this kid," said Walls. "He can play anywhere."
Keke entered the Aggies' starting lineup as a sophomore. He started in 34 games from 2016 to 2018. Keke moved from nose guard to defensive end in 2018 and produced his best season. This past year, he recorded seven sacks among 11 tackles for loss. He lost weight and was a more effective pass rusher at a new position. Throughout his college career, Keke recorded 12 sacks among 21 TFLs, seven passes defensed and three fumble recoveries.
"He has a great feel for reacting and setting up his plan," said Walls. "He’s just natural."
It was the 6-foot-3, 293 pounders size and versatility that caught the eye of the Packers.
"Honestly, this kid is so unique," said Walls. "I think whatever the coaches want him to do, he can do with his body type. He's just a broad man with plenty of room to grow."
Keke said he's most comfortable playing at a weight between 295 to 300 pounds; however, he's not only flexible with his game, but with his body as well.
"I want to put my body in the best shape possible, so that way I can feel good everyday and get better everyday," said Keke.
The Richmond, Texas native said he's never been to Wisconsin, but he's ready to get to work.
