Kevin Haplea

We are now moving on to our second of seven early enrollees. Today we are going to take a look at tight end Kevin Haplea. Kevin was a much needed recruit, especially with the losses of Mickey Shuler and Quarless at the tight end position.

Kevin was highly recruited tight end in the class of 2010. Some recruiting services had Kevin ranked as high as the sixth ranked tight end in the class of 2010. Standing at 6'4" and listed as much as 240 lbs, he seemed to have build to contribute and strengthen the depth chart almost immediately. However, Kevin has been officially listed at 210 lbs on the Penn State roster and has some room to grow.

Taking a closer look at Kevin, he certainly has the frame to grow into a great division I tight end, and the skills to go with it. Kevin has a great knack for the ball. His on the ball skills rival that of most receivers, possessing great hands, boasting a 32 inch vertical, and does a great job of using his body to box out defenders and high point the ball. Kevin also has a relentless motor, almost always going to the whistle, and does a great job blocking.

Though his upside is great, Kevin will need to grow into his frame before he can contribute at this level. Even though he is extremely talented and possesses a great amount of potential, Kevin will need to improve his size and speed in order to contribute. Currently, he is a little undersized to play on the end of the line and will most likely be out muscled by many defensive end and linebackers at this level. Linebackers at this level will be able to match his current speed, so he will need to bulk up to be able to use his frame to his advantage.

Haplea is a work in progress, but with his work ethic and raw ability, I would expect him to develop into a great player in a couple of years. It would definitely be a shame if a player of his caliber does not develop into a top tier player at this level. With the coaching and the facilities at Penn State, I say that he will do just fine. Just keep an eye open for number 82 this weekend at the Blue and White game.

NEXT UP: DAKOTA ROYER

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