Kyle Louis NFL Draft Scouting Report

Pitt's Kyle Louis is one of the more intriguing linebacker prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the athleticism, instincts and intelligence that makes him a dynamic playmaker when the ball gets near him. Despite concerns about his lack of ideal size, Louis' ability to make splash plays and line up at multiple positions should make him a Day 2 pick.

Here's everything NFL fans need to know about Louis heading into this year's draft:

Kyle Louis' Vitals

Height: 6-1

Weight: 220

Age: 21

Kyle Louis' Strengths

Smart and speedy, Louis’ high level of intelligence and preparation are obvious on film. He comes flying downhill not with reckless abandon, but with a calculated plan to get where he already knows the ball is going. His instincts and ball skills can create splash plays in clutch moments, and he has an impressive feel for how to get to the quarterback as a blitz weapon. He’s a reliable tackler who can throttle down and stay controlled in space, wrapping up at the point of attack and bringing more punch than you might expect from an undersized linebacker. Louis is a valuable leader who sets a strong example for his teammates; a true “glue guy” who sets the tone and the culture for an entire team.

Kyle Louis' Weaknesses

Louis’ size is the obvious drawback, as he’s a linebacker stuck in a safety’s body. He could have a hard time holding up near the trenches in the NFL, where blockers are bigger and stronger than anything he’s faced at the college level up to this point. He lacks the strength and anchor to hold his ground when blockers are able to lock on and drive him away from the ball, relegating him to trying to avoid blocks instead of being able to consistently play through them.

Final Analysis

He’s got valuable physical and mental traits, and the intangibles are all there, too. That said, Louis’ undersized frame will require some schematic creativity if he wants to be a regular contributor on defense at the next level. He should have sub-package value in the right system, and at worst, be able to make an instant impact and carve out a long career on special teams.

2026 NFL Draft Projection: 3rd/4th Round