Scouting new commit Alex King

What kind of player is new Kentucky commitment Alex King?

Here's a scouting report that should provide a rough outline.

Here's what King had to say to Midwest region analyst Josh Helmholdt last month, when he was describing the position he is likely to play in college:

“The majority of colleges are saying I could be a walk-up, outside linebacker,” King said. “I have played linebacker a little bit, but I don’t think I would have a problem. It’s just like a DE but you’re on your feet, covering receivers and blitzing. I think I could adjust pretty well to it.”

That's right in line with what program sources have told Cats Illustrated: That King will man the Jack linebacker position, which amounts to a hybrid end/edge rusher who is expected to provide a pass rush, stop the run, make plays sideline to sideline, and occasionally cover.

King is listed at 6-foot-3, 224 pounds on Rivals.com. His Hudl.com player page lists him as a 6-foot-4, 220-pound defensive end. That same page also lists King's 40-yard dash time as being 4.6 seconds.

Cats Illustrated's Take: King is impressive for his combination of explosive athleticism, strength at the point of attack, and the fluidity of his hips, which allows him to change directions when he's in pursuit of the ball.

King comes off the ball quickly at the snap and is able to get a good rush on the outside. Even when he's pushed seemingly beyond the action he's got the closing speed to make an improbable play on the ball, so he can't be counted out of any play.

He's got impressive strength when he extends his arms, and seems to have good length.

King seems to have a thicker build than Jaylin Bannerman and Jordan Bonner, the Cats' two Jack linebacker commitments from the Class of 2017, although he doesn't quite have the length of those two players. He's probably going to arrive at UK with a greater readiness to contribute right away as a true freshman.