Purdue Football: Jenkins adapting to new position

Despite changing positions heading into this season, the goal remains the same for Purdue football defensive standout Kydran Jenkins — get after the quarterback.

A season ago, Jenkins had no problem doing that from his rush end position for Purdue football. This year, he will look to chase down opposing quarterbacks from the inside linebacker position.

Jenkins said the biggest thing that has helped him improve during the offseason is being a leader.

“Being a leader and my eyes and communication on the field,” Jenkins said as to how he has improved from last year. “Of course, playing linebacker now and being able to go sideline to sideline now. I’ve gotten better at that, especially when I am just learning it.”

At rush end last year, Jenkins recorded 57 tackles, 15.5 tackles for a loss, 7.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries and a touchdown. He said the move in position was a joint decision between him and the coaches.

“I knew it would be my best chance to get to the next level. When coach told me he wanted to take me to inside linebacker, I told him I was all for it because I know I can play it. I played it in high school,” Jenkins said.

Despite the change in position, Jenkins said he will be all over the field, looking to get tackles for a loss and sacks again when Purdue football opens the season.

“I’m going to be everywhere. I’ll be in coverage. I’ll be on the line. I’ll be inside and back in the middle, wherever they want me to be, I’ll be there, making plays,” Jenkins said.

Purdue football opens the season Aug. 31 at Ross-Ade Stadium against Indiana State.