Kentwan Balmer SELECTED BY: San Francisco 49ers Round 1(29)

SI Grade 3.93 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Full-time starter the past two seasons who posted a career-high 59/9.5/3.5 as a senior when he was awarded All-Conference honors. Posted 61/2.5/2.5 the previous year. Played defensive end as a freshman and sophomore.

POSITIVES: Well-sized defensive lineman with potential at tackle or as a two-gap end. Plays with good pad level, effectively uses his hands, and quickly changes direction to make plays down the line. Displays terrific explosion, keeps his feet driving up the field, and bull-rushes opponents off the ball. Agile and makes a lot of athletic plays.

NEGATIVES: Must improve his overall body strength, as he's easily held up by a single blocker. Takes downs off and considered an underachiever for most of his college career.

ANALYSIS: Balmer is a physically talented prospect with a large degree of upside potential. After a career year in 2007, he showed promise at the Senior Bowl and is moving up draft boards. His ability to produce at the next level will be determined by the consistency of his effort on the field.