Kai Parham ILB 6'3 256 Virginia Jr.
By: Robert Davis

Kai Parham left Virginia after three standout seasons for the Cavaliers. As a redshirt freshman in 2003, Parham earned Freshman All-American honors after racking up 89 tackles, seven for loss, and one sack. He followed that up with another solid campaign, finishing the year with 80 tackles, 11 for loss, and two sacks. Parham blew up this year and posted career highs across the board on his way to All ACC honors. He had 103 tackles, 15 for loss, and nine sacks as a junior.

Parham is the prototypical run stuffing linebacker. He is very aggressive when he reads a run play and immediately moves forward. With his bulk and strength, he can weed through traffic and get to the ball carrier. Once he arrives on the action, players rarely escape his grasp. Parham also showed the ability to blitz and shoot gaps this year, notching nine sacks. Even though he has only played three seasons, he has a ton of experience. That experience also comes in a 3-4 defense, which has become popular of late.

While he is a good athlete, Parham does not have great speed. He is not as slow as his 5.03 40 at the combine says, but he lacks great speed inside. His lack of speed also hinders his ability to turn and cover, because he cannot keep up with players down the field.

Kai Parham is an excellent run stuffing linebacker. His coverage skills leave something to be desired, but he will be a great two down player at the next level. His 40 time at the combine hurt his stock a little, but he is still one of the top inside linebackers available. He could hear his name called at some point in the third round, but if he falls to Day Two, could be one of the steals of the draft.