Jake Kreul

Physical Profile

Listed at 6-foot-3, 230 pounds, Kreul has a solid frame for an Edge rusher, though he isn't considered a 'first-off-the-bus' physical specimen. His build is more about functional strength and agility rather than overwhelming size or length. While not possessing elite explosiveness out of his stance, he demonstrates good bend and the ability to build speed as he turns the corner. His game is predicated on technique and motor over raw physical dominance.

Play Style

On film, Kreul is a cerebral and relentless pass rusher. He wins with excellent snap anticipation, a variety of hand-fighting techniques, and superb balance to shave the edge. He is adept at using inside and outside moves to capitalize on a tackle's mistakes. Despite not having elite size, he was highly productive at powerhouse programs, recording 12 tackles for loss and 6 sacks as a junior, followed by 16 TFL and 4 sacks as a senior at IMG Academy. His work ethic and technical prowess are evident in his play, and he was named the 'Alpha Dog' at the Under Armour Next Camp in Miami.

Strengths

• Polished Pass-Rush Technique: Possesses a deep arsenal of pass-rush moves and understands how to set up offensive tackles, often baiting them into poor decisions. He is considered a technician with advanced hand combat skills for his age.
• High Motor & Relentless Pursuit: Praised for his high-octane motor and playing with a 'full tank of gas'. He is extremely effective in pursuit due to his burst and agility, consistently making plays through effort.
• Advanced Football IQ & Instincts: Oklahoma's coaching staff highlighted his natural instincts and understanding of offensive line schemes and techniques. He is known to be an inquisitive and driven player, constantly seeking to improve his knowledge of the game.

Areas to Improve

• Adding Mass and Strength: To consistently hold up against the run at the Power Four level, Kreul will need to add bulk to his frame. He currently lacks the mass for consistent block destruction in the run game.
• Initial Explosiveness: While he has good snap anticipation, scouting reports note that he is not a truly elite explosive athlete off the line of scrimmage. Improving his initial burst would elevate his game to another level.

College Projection

Kreul is expected to contribute early in his college career at Oklahoma, likely as a key part of the defensive end rotation in sub-packages. His advanced technique and high football IQ give him a high floor. As he develops physically in a college strength and conditioning program, he has the potential to become a multi-year, All-Conference level starter with the versatility to play as a traditional 4-3 defensive end.

NFL Outlook

With a 247Sports projection as a 2nd-3rd round Day 2 NFL Draft pick, Kreul's ceiling is considerable. His game is reminiscent of Ohio State's Caden Curry. His pass-rushing acumen, motor, and proven production against elite high school talent project well to the next level. His ultimate draft stock will depend on his ability to add functional strength and prove he can consistently defend the run against bigger, more physical offensive linemen.

Best Fit

A program with an aggressive, attacking 4-3 defensive scheme that allows its defensive ends to get upfield and create disruption is ideal for Kreul. His commitment to Oklahoma fits this mold, as he has cited the Sooners' progressive defense and how they utilize their edge rushers to create tackles for loss as a key reason for his decision.