2014 Draft Profile: LB Kyle Van Noy

Dec 20, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; Brigham Young Cougars linebacker Kyle Van Noy (3) runs back an interception for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the San Diego State Aztecs at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
There has been talk that the Chargers are interested in BYU’s best pass rusher, linebacker Kyle Van Noy. The 6’3″ 245 lb linebacker out of Reno, NV had a very decorated career at BYU. Van Noy was a 4 year starter for the Cougars. He has been among the leaders in tackles for loss and sacks the past few years. He was a first-team All-Independent a few times, also received votes in multiple years for All-American, including third-team honors. He was the 2013 Independent Defensive Player of the Year and a Chuck Bendarik and Dick Butkus award semifinalist. He finished with 26 sacks, 153 solo tackles, 226 total, 7 INT’s, 2 of them returned for touchdowns and he also blocked 3 kicks. Many San Diego fans remember him wreaking havoc at Qualcomm Stadium against San Diego State in the 2012 Poinsettia Bowl. He recorded 8 tackles, 1.5 sacks, a fumble forced and recovered in the end zone for a touchdown and he also sealed BYU’s win in that game with a pick-6. Needless to say he has a knack for making plays when it counts.
He is not the fastest player in the draft, nor the biggest or strongest. But he is a playmaker. As the old cliché goes, he has a nose for the football. He did end this past year with some injuries, making his stats appear sub-par to his previous years, but he stayed on the field despite injuries to be a leader on the team. He also played one of his best games of the 2013 season against a meaty Wisconsin Badger offense. He had 8 tackles and an interception against an offensive line that sends players to the pros year in and year out. He has played against many talented, pro-level players. He has stacked up well.
I had the privilege of watching a few of his games in person, and let me tell you from personal experience, he brings energy to a defense. He loves the game of football. Whoever drafts him will not be sorry. The Chargers need someone like Van Noy. He is consistent and reliable. And he is free from off-the-field issues, which is always a plus. He has character. Kyle Van Noy would be a great asset to the Chargers’ defense, which is in dire need of depth.