Kyle Kennard has emerged as one of college football’s most electrifying defensive talents, and his journey from Atlanta, Georgia, to the cusp of an NFL career has fans and scouts buzzing. As a standout edge rusher for the South Carolina Gamecocks, Kennard’s 2024 season was nothing short of historic, earning him the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Trophy as the nation’s top defensive player.
In this in-depth blog post, we’ll explore every angle of Kyle Kennard’s life—his age, NFL career potential, family background, siblings, height, weight, parents and their names, relationship status (girlfriends, wife, kids), net worth, house, car, college stats, brand endorsements, friends, NFL draft projections, and a detailed FAQ section. Whether you’re a Gamecocks fan or an NFL Draft enthusiast, this 3000-word guide has everything you need to know about Kyle Kennard.
Who Is Kyle Kennard? A Quick Overview
Born on December 12, 2001, Kyle M. Kennard is an American college football defensive end who has taken the SEC by storm. Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, he honed his skills at Riverwood International Charter School before committing to Georgia Tech as a three-star recruit. After four productive years with the Yellow Jackets, Kennard transferred to South Carolina for his final season in 2024, where he delivered a breakout performance that catapulted him into the national spotlight. With 11.5 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss, and a slew of accolades in 2024, Kennard declared for the 2025 NFL Draft on December 13, 2024, opting out of the Citrus Bowl to prepare for his professional career. Let’s dive into the details of this rising star.
Kyle Kennard’s Age: How Old Is He in 2025?
As of April 4, 2025, Kyle Kennard is 23 years old, having been born on December 12, 2001. He’ll turn 24 in December 2025, making him a relatively young prospect for the NFL Draft. His age is a significant advantage—while he’s older than some underclassmen entering the draft, his five years of college experience (including a redshirt year) have given him a polished skill set without excessive wear and tear. At 23, Kennard has the physical maturity to compete at the pro level and the youth to offer a decade-plus of high-level play, assuming he stays healthy.
Kyle Kennard’s NFL Career: What’s Next?
Kyle Kennard’s NFL career hasn’t officially begun as of April 2025, but his college resume suggests he’s on the fast track to success. After four seasons at Georgia Tech (2020-2023), where he steadily improved, Kennard transferred to South Carolina for 2024 and transformed into an elite edge rusher. His 2024 stats—11.5 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss, 4 forced fumbles, and a safety against Alabama—earned him the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, SEC Defensive Player of the Year, and consensus All-American honors. His dominance against top competition, like his 2-sack performance against Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, showcased his NFL readiness.
Analysts project Kennard as a Day 2 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, likely in the second or third round (picks 33-96). His Combine performance (4.73-second 40-yard dash, 33⅜-inch arms, 6’4” height, 248 pounds) impressed scouts, though some note he’ll need to add strength to anchor against NFL offensive linemen. Teams like the Green Bay Packers, New York Giants, and Atlanta Falcons—needing pass-rush help—could target him. Kennard’s best fit is as a stand-up outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, where his speed (good burst off the line) and length can shine as a situational pass rusher early on, with potential to develop into an every-down player.
Kyle Kennard’s Family: Roots and Support System
Family has been a cornerstone of Kyle Kennard’s rise. Born and raised in Atlanta, he attended Riverwood International Charter School in nearby Sandy Springs, Georgia, where he starred as a defensive end. His family’s support allowed him to pursue football at a high level, eventually moving from Georgia Tech to South Carolina to maximize his potential.
Parents and Their Names
Kyle Kennard’s father is Derek Kennard, a former NFL offensive lineman who played 11 seasons (1986-1996) with the St. Louis/Phoenix Cardinals, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys, winning Super Bowl XXX with the latter. Derek, a Stockton, California native, attended the University of Nevada, Reno, and his pro experience likely influenced Kyle’s football aspirations. Kyle’s mother’s name isn’t widely publicized, but she’s part of the supportive family unit that helped him excel. Derek’s NFL pedigree gives Kyle a unique edge—insights from a former player that few prospects can claim.
Siblings
There’s no public information confirming whether Kyle Kennard has siblings. Growing up in Atlanta, he’s kept his family life private, and no brothers or sisters have been mentioned in interviews or media profiles. If he does have siblings, they’ve stayed out of the spotlight, letting Kyle’s football journey take center stage. We’ll update this if new details emerge post-draft.
Kyle Kennard’s Height and Weight: Physical Tools
At 6’4” and 248 pounds, Kyle Kennard has the prototypical frame for an NFL edge rusher. His height and 33⅜-inch arms give him a wide tackling radius and the ability to keep blockers at bay, while his weight provides enough mass to hold up in the trenches—though he’ll need to add 10-15 pounds to compete with NFL tackles consistently. At the 2025 NFL Combine, he ran a 4.73-second 40-yard dash, showing solid speed for his size, and his 9⅜-inch hands aid in shedding blocks. Compared to players like Harold Landry (6’2”, 252 lbs), Kennard’s blend of length and agility makes him a versatile pass-rush threat.
Kyle Kennard’s Relationship Status: Girlfriends, Wife, and Kids
Girlfriends and Their Names
As of April 2025, Kyle Kennard hasn’t publicly confirmed any girlfriends. At 23, with a focus on football and a services management degree from South Carolina (graduated December 2024), he appears to prioritize his career over public relationships. No credible rumors or social media hints point to a significant other, and his private nature suggests he’s keeping any dating life under wraps. As his NFL profile rises, paparazzi and fans might uncover more, but for now, there’s no named girlfriend to report.
Wife and Kids
Kyle Kennard is not married and has no children. At 23, he’s at an age where most athletes are still building their careers before settling down. His focus on the NFL Draft and professional transition indicates family life isn’t on the immediate horizon—but that could change once he’s established in the league.
Kyle Kennard’s Net Worth: Financial Outlook
Since Kyle Kennard hasn’t turned pro yet, his current net worth is modest. As a college athlete, he’s earned through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, likely in the $50,000-$200,000 range, given his 2024 accolades and SEC prominence. Post-draft, his net worth will surge—a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, like Harold Landry III, signed a 4-year, $8.5 million contract with a $3.5 million signing bonus. With endorsements on the horizon, Kennard could be worth $5-10 million within a few years, depending on his rookie performance and marketability.
Kyle Kennard’s House and Car: Lifestyle Glimpses
As a college student in 2024, Kennard likely lived in dorms or off-campus housing near South Carolina’s campus in Columbia. He doesn’t own a high-profile house yet—that’s a perk awaiting his NFL paycheck. Similarly, his car remains a mystery; he might drive something practical like a Ford or Jeep, reflecting his grounded upbringing. Once drafted, expect him to splurge on a starter home (perhaps in his NFL city) and a flashy ride—think a Dodge Charger or Tesla, popular among young NFL stars.
Kyle Kennard’s Stats: College Dominance
Kennard’s college stats highlight his evolution into an elite defender. Here’s a breakdown:
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Georgia Tech (2020-2023): 43 games, 23 starts, 107 tackles, 21.5 TFLs, 13 sacks, 2 INTs, 3 forced fumbles. Peak year: 2023 (54 tackles, 6 sacks, 11 TFLs).
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South Carolina (2024): 11 games, 11 starts, 36 tackles, 15.5 TFLs, 11.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries. Led SEC in sacks and TFLs.
Career totals: 54 games, 143 tackles, 37 TFLs, 24 sacks. His 2024 explosion—highlighted by a 2.5-sack, 2-forced-fumble opener vs. Old Dominion—cemented his draft stock. Kennard’s knack for game-changing plays (e.g., a safety vs. Alabama) makes him a scout’s dream.
Brand Endorsements: Future Marketability
Kennard’s NIL deals at South Carolina were likely local or mid-tier, but his 2024 awards boost his appeal. Brands like Nike, Under Armour, or Gatorade could target him post-draft, especially if he lands with a big-market team. His Atlanta roots and Derek Kennard’s NFL legacy might attract regional endorsements too—think Georgia-based companies or sports tech firms. As a Nagurski winner, he’s a prime candidate for defensive-player-focused campaigns.
Kyle Kennard’s Friends: Inner Circle
Kennard’s private persona limits insight into his friendships. At Georgia Tech, he likely bonded with teammates like quarterback Jeff Sims (now at Arizona State). At South Carolina, edge rusher Tonka Hemingway and QB LaNorris Sellers—fellow 2024 standouts—were probable confidants. His high school coach, Robert Edwards, and early mentors shaped his work ethic, suggesting a tight-knit support network. In the NFL, he’ll likely connect with fellow rookies and veterans on his team.
Kyle Kennard and the 2025 NFL Draft: Projections
Declared for the 2025 NFL Draft on December 13, 2024, Kennard is a lock for Day 2 (Rounds 2-3). His 2024 tape—speed off the edge, natural bend, and relentless motor—earned raves, though his 248-pound frame and lack of power against the run temper some projections. Mock drafts see him going to teams like the Packers (to pair with Rashan Gary) or Falcons (a hometown fit). His ceiling is a Pro Bowl-caliber OLB; his floor is a reliable rotational rusher. The draft, set for April 24-26, 2025, in Green Bay, will define his next chapter.
FAQ: Top Questions About Kyle Kennard Answered
1. How old is Kyle Kennard?
He’s 23, born December 12, 2001, turning 24 in December 2025.
2. What’s his height and weight?
Kennard is 6’4” and 248 pounds.
3. Who are his parents?
His father is Derek Kennard; his mother’s name isn’t public.
4. Does he have a girlfriend or wife?
No confirmed girlfriend or wife as of April 2025.
5. What’s his net worth?
Estimated at $50,000-$200,000 now, with millions ahead post-draft.
6. What are his college stats?
143 tackles, 37 TFLs, 24 sacks across 54 games.
7. When is the 2025 NFL Draft?
April 24-26, 2025, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
8. What round will he be drafted?
Likely Round 2 or 3, per current mocks.
Conclusion: Kyle Kennard’s Star Is Rising
Kyle Kennard’s path—from Atlanta to Georgia Tech, South Carolina, and soon the NFL—is a testament to talent, hard work, and family support. At 23, with a trophy case full of honors and a skill set primed for the pros, he’s on the verge of a breakout NFL career. Whether it’s his stats, draft stock, or future endorsements, Kennard is a name to watch in 2025 and beyond.
Stay tuned as this edge-rushing phenom takes the league by storm.