Former Washington OL Jaxson Kirkland signs UDFA deal after 2023 NFL Draft
Washington offensive lineman Jaxson Kirkland has signed a deal as an undrafted rookie free agent to join the Cincinnati Bengals, according to On3’s Matt Zenitz. Kirkland played tackle at Washington but projects to move inside at the next level.
Kirkland aided Washington to an 11-2 record in 2022. The Huskies won the Alamo Bowl 27-20 over Texas.
Kirkland was also named to the Pro Football Focus College Football Third-Team All-American squad.
As a member of the Class of 2017, Kirkland was a three-star recruit out of Portland (Ore.) Jesuit, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 8 overall prospect in the state, the No. 35 interior offensive lineman in the class and the No. 501 overall prospect in the class.
What NFL Draft analysts are saying about Jaxson Kirkland
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein broke down the tape of Kirkland throughout his Washington Huskies career.
Guard is the position of choice, but Kirkland’s ability to play tackle on the fly could aid his stock. However, it seems like he’ll remain a Day 3 pick in the draft.
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“Kirkland is likely to ply his trade as a guard, but he might be able to step in at tackle in a pinch,” Zierlein wrote. “His barrel-chested, high-cut frame looks out of place at guard. He is unable to generate the leverage or power needed as a downhill blocker but does a decent job on positional blocks on the move. In protection, bull rushers can get under him and drive him into the pocket, but he’s quick with his hands and can get on top of rushers quickly when he needs to. His pass protection background could bolster his chances as a Day 3 pick and future backup.”
Zierlein also listed Kirkland’s strengths:
“Five-year starter with starting reps at both guard spots and left tackle; Uses inside hands with good placement as run blocker; Smooth transition from first to second block on combos; Initial quickness for stretch plays and pulling assignments; Protection experience as a tackle is a big plus; Adequate range in his pass sets; Protects with inside hands and a stable mirror inside; Possesses agility for reactive recoveries.”