Castro's Kingdom

With a name starting with “Bark” was it really a question where Keke Mingo would end up? All kidding aside, the Browns drafted a solid player that will provide instant relief on the defensive side of the ball.

Working at one of the top college football companies in the country, Phil Steele Publications, allows me unprecedented information about players. I wanted to share what we have on our Keke Mingo “player card.”

The 6-5, 240 pound DE/OLB was not only a standout on the gridiron in HS, but also a track stud, where he was a sprinter in the 200 & 400 meters! Phil Steele ranked him as the #13 overall LB in the country when he signed with LSU.

After redshirting his True Freshman year, he gained 26 pounds and was moved to DE. He flashed unbelievable speed (4.5 40) & athleticism (35.5″ vertical) for a guy his size. He played in 13 games, starting 1 as a redshirt frosh, showing tremendous speed off the edge. He finished with 35 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 3 tackles for loss, 4 QB hurries, 2 forced fumbles, 6 pass break ups and was named to the All-SEC Frosh team.

Entering his Sophomore season Keke earned LSU’s offseason Leadership award along with their spring award. Head coach Les Miles said “He’s got safety & OLB speed.” He played in 14 games, starting 5 and finished with 46 tackles, 8 sacks, 7 tackles for loss, 11 QB hurries (5 in the SEC Champ game alone), 2 pass break ups and was named 2nd Tm SEC.

Entering his Junior season, which would be his last, Keke again earned LSU’s offseason Leadership award & the MVP of the Spring award. He was named to the Nagurski, Bednarik, and Lombardi watch list. He played in 13 games, starting 10 and finished with 38 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 4 tackles for loss, 12 QB hurries, 1 forced fumble, 3 pass break ups and again earned 2nd Tm SEC.

The Browns are not just getting a solid football player, but a great person who is a leader off the field as well. I really like the pick and Browns fans, you should be excited!!