Gamecock EDGE Kyle Kennard attended Panthers Local Day, meeting with 10 NFL teams, as his draft prospects continue to gain attention due to his impressive skills and potential for the next level.

As the NFL draft looms, players from across the country are positioning themselves for what could be a life-changing moment. One player generating significant attention is South Carolina Gamecocks EDGE rusher, Kyle Kennard. Kennard, who has emerged as one of the most talked-about prospects in his position, has steadily made a name for himself with his impressive blend of size, strength, and agility. Recently, Kennard attended the Carolina Panthers Local Day, a key event that offers NFL teams a chance to get to know draft prospects on a more personal level. Kennard’s attendance at this event, combined with his meetings with 10 different NFL teams, highlights the growing interest in his talents as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches.

The Significance of the Panthers Local Day

For any NFL hopeful, Local Day is a crucial step in the draft process. This event is typically reserved for draft prospects who are either local to the team’s area or have a direct connection to the franchise. For South Carolina players like Kyle Kennard, attending a Local Day can provide an invaluable opportunity to showcase their skills in front of one of the teams that could ultimately select them.

In Kennard’s case, the Panthers Local Day was an important occasion not only for exposure but also for networking. It was an opportunity for Kennard to display his physical tools, talk to coaches, and engage in a series of interviews that allowed NFL teams to assess his character and potential fit. While Kennard’s performance at the Local Day would have certainly caught the attention of Carolina Panthers coaches and staff, it also helped reinforce his reputation as a draft prospect who is generating buzz beyond the Gamecock fanbase.

A Deep Dive into Kyle Kennard’s Game

To understand why Kennard is on the radar of 10 NFL teams, it’s essential to look at his skill set and what he brings to the table. As an EDGE rusher, Kennard’s primary role is to disrupt the quarterback, and he has done that effectively for South Carolina. Standing at 6’4” and weighing in at 265 pounds, Kennard possesses a combination of size and speed that allows him to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks consistently. His ability to shed blockers, explode off the line, and close in on the quarterback makes him a dangerous force on defense.

In 2024, Kennard had a breakout season for the Gamecocks, where he tallied several sacks, forced fumbles, and registered tackles for loss. His relentless motor and high football IQ have made him a standout player in the SEC, a conference known for producing elite defensive prospects. But it’s not just his physical attributes that have made Kennard a sought-after player. His leadership on and off the field, combined with his ability to read offensive linemen and set up plays, has only added to his stock in the lead-up to the draft.

Why NFL Teams Are Paying Attention

With NFL teams always on the lookout for EDGE rushers who can change the game, Kennard fits the mold of a player who can come in and make an immediate impact. The league has seen an increasing demand for pass rushers who can disrupt offenses and create turnovers, making Kennard a highly valuable commodity. His versatility also adds to his appeal. Not only can he play as a traditional defensive end in a 4-3 defense, but he can also stand up as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, making him an ideal fit for multiple defensive schemes.

The versatility and explosiveness Kennard brings to the table are traits that NFL teams look for when drafting a defensive player. As offenses become more dynamic and pass-heavy, the ability to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback has never been more important. Teams are looking for players like Kennard who can contribute on every down, whether it’s rushing the passer, setting the edge in the run game, or dropping into coverage when needed.

The Importance of Meeting with 10 NFL Teams

Meeting with 10 NFL teams is a significant accomplishment for any draft prospect, and for Kennard, it signals that his stock is rising in the eyes of league decision-makers. Each of these teams brings a unique perspective on how Kennard could fit into their defensive schemes, and these interactions will undoubtedly shape his draft position. Teams will be looking closely at his physical and mental preparation for the NFL and assessing whether his playing style aligns with their defensive strategies.

Some of the teams Kennard meets with may be in need of a pass rusher, and Kennard could be seen as the missing piece in their defensive unit. The meetings allow coaches, general managers, and scouts to assess Kennard’s character, work ethic, and football IQ—important qualities that go beyond what can be measured in drills. It’s not just about his physical ability; NFL teams want to know if Kennard can handle the transition to the professional game and how he’ll integrate into a new locker room dynamic.

The fact that Kennard has captured the attention of so many teams suggests that his skills have impressed a wide range of organizations. It’s a testament to the impact he made at South Carolina and his ability to perform against some of the best competition in the country. As the draft approaches, it’s clear that Kennard is a player who will be in demand.

The Panthers Connection and What’s Next

For the Carolina Panthers, attending the Local Day was an important step in evaluating Kennard as a potential fit for their defense. The Panthers have been in rebuilding mode in recent seasons and are looking for players who can step in and contribute immediately. Kennard could be a natural fit in their defense, which places a premium on creating pressure from the front seven.

While the Panthers are one of the many teams to have shown interest in Kennard, his meetings with the other nine NFL teams further elevate his profile as one of the top EDGE prospects available. The next steps for Kennard will be the upcoming workouts, interviews, and pre-draft evaluations, where he will have the opportunity to solidify his place among the top defensive prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft.

As the draft approaches, it will be interesting to see where Kennard lands and what kind of role he takes on in the NFL. Given his skills, leadership, and versatility, it’s highly likely that Kennard will be an early-round pick who has a chance to make an immediate impact at the next level.

The Road to the NFL

For players like Kennard, the journey to the NFL is often one filled with determination, hard work, and sacrifice. Kennard’s time at South Carolina has prepared him for the challenges ahead, and his rise as a draft prospect is the result of years of hard work and dedication to his craft. While the process of transitioning from college to the NFL can be a daunting one, Kennard has the tools to succeed.

NFL teams are looking for players who not only possess elite physical skills but also have the mentality to succeed in the world’s most competitive football league. Kennard’s ability to adjust to different playing styles, his consistent production on the field, and his ability to communicate effectively with his coaches and teammates have all played a role in his draft prospects.

As Kennard prepares for the NFL Draft, his focus will likely be on continuing to develop his game and ensuring that he’s in peak physical and mental condition when the time comes to step into an NFL locker room. With the draft just around the corner, teams will be closely watching how Kennard performs during his final evaluations. If his meetings with NFL teams are any indication, there is little doubt that he is a player who will be in high demand on draft day.