Kelson McKinney Kelson McKinney 5'11" | 215 lbs | ATH Green County | 2024 State KY is a player that has been on my radar for a while now and continued to impress this past week. He played a key role in Green County’s win over Monroe County. McKinney lined up at linebacker where he was impressive against the run, showing the ability to flow to the ball quickly to make tackles in the open field. He finished the game with 11 tackles and one tackle for loss. Kelson also showed the ability to make plays in pass coverage, coming away with one interception and returning it for a touchdown. He also led the team in rushing, carrying the ball 11 times for 137 yards and a touchdown. McKinney currently holds an offer from Union College and I expect more to come his way as he has the talent to play on either side of the ball at the next level.

A physically strong, explosive and deceptively athletic performer, McKinney was the most impactful player on the field in his Dragons’ 51-28 district win over Monroe County, racking up 137 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns on 11 carries offensively while also collecting 11 tackles, 1 tackle for loss and a 27-yard pick-six (an eyebrow-raising, one-handed grab ‘n go worthy of anyone’s highlight reel) on defense. Now averaging over 125 yards of total offense per game, he ranks 15th among all Class AA rushers (88.1 yards per game), 38th among receivers (37.9 yards per game) and 6th among scorers (12.5 points per game/30th statewide). Defensively, his athleticism and ball skills also have contributed 39 total stops, 4 tackles for loss and 3 interceptions (2 of them returned for scores) in shared/situational defensive duty. With the frame, build and skill set to excel as a traditional fullback, tight end, H back or even inside linebacker, McKinney’s explosiveness and technical prowess also have helped make him a standout thrower in shot put and discus, affording him a number of added next-level options.