Jevon Kearse Height and Weight: Verified Measurements
At 6 feet 3 inches (190.5 cm) and a playing weight around 258–260 pounds (117–118 kg), Jevon Kearse’s size was well suited to his outside linebacker role in the NFL. These measurements align with official combine and team records from his draft year and early professional seasons. Below, we break down his key physical attributes, compare them to position benchmarks of the era, and explain how his frame supported his game style and durability.
Official Combine and Team Data
Combine Metrics at 1999 NFL Scouting Combine
Reported numbers from the 1999 combine provide the baseline for Kearse’s early-career measurements. Teams rely on standardized testing to establish reference points for position comparisons and evaluations.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (190.5 cm) | Combine measurement |
| Weight | 260 lb (118 kg) | Combine measurement |
| Arm Length | 34 in (86.4 cm) | Combine measurement |
| Hand Span | 10 in (25.4 cm) | Combine measurement |
| 40‑yard dash | 4.65–4.68 sec | Combine timing |
| Bench Press (225 lb reps) | 17 reps | Combine results |
Team and Position Context
Outside linebackers in the late 1990s and early 2000s typically ranged from about 6 ft 1 in to 6 ft 3 in and 250–270 lb, depending on scheme and team needs. Kearse’s measured 6 ft 3 in and roughly 260 lb at the combine placed him squarely within the prototypical size window for his position, supporting edge-set, run-fit, and pass-rush responsibilities. Teams valued length and frame to match up against tight ends and running backs while maintaining mobility to pursue in space.
Physical Profile and Athletic Characteristics
Frame, Length, and Functional Strength
Kearse’s 34-inch arm span contributed to his ability to disrupt plays at the edge without needing to wrap and hold as smaller-linebacker frames might. The combination of height, long arms, and solid core strength allowed him to maintain bend-and-handle athleticism while delivering powerful contact. His 17-rep bench press at combine testing reflected functional upper-body strength that translated well to shedding blockers and finishing tackles.
Speed and Quickness Metrics
- Three-cone drill: approximately 7.12 seconds (estimated from combine-era reporting)
- 20‑yard split: roughly 2.68 seconds
- Vertical jump: about 34.5 inches
- Broad jump: approximately 105 inches
These numbers support Kearse’s reputation for burst and closing speed on outside linebacking paths, enabling him to cover flats, attack gaps, and pursue ballcarriers downhill.
Career Performance Relative to Physical Tools
Drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 16th overall pick in 1999, Kearse recorded 9.5 sacks in his rookie season and earned Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. His size and athleticism allowed him to win consistently against the run and set the edge while contributing in coverage on certain formations. As schemes evolved, maintaining a balanced 250-plus-pound frame helped him stay effective across multiple defensive alignments without sacrificing mobility or durability.
Comparisons and Position Benchmarks
When comparing Kearse’s measurements to notable outside linebackers of his era, several parallels emerge in height and weight ranges. The following table summarizes representative metrics for peers in the late 1990s and early 2000s, illustrating how Kearse’s profile matched prototypical builds for the position.
| Player | Height | Weight | Team/Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jevon Kearse | 6 ft 3 in | 260 lb | 1999 combine | Outside linebacker |
| Julius Peppers | 6 ft 4 in | 265 lb | 2002 combine | Outside linebacker/defensive end |
| LaMarr Woodley | 6 ft 3 in | 260 lb | 2007 combine | Outside linebacker |
| Jason Taylor* | 6 ft 3 in | 300 lb | 1997–2007 | Defensive tackle (for size context) |
How Measurements Fit Scheme and Role
Coaches value Kearse’s 6 ft 3 in frame for setting outside leverage against blocking schemes designed to cut back the edge. At roughly 260 lb, he possessed the mass to anchor against double teams while still being light enough to chase ballcarriers in space. Modern analytics around win rate by frame suggest that linebackers in his height and weight band historically achieve higher run-stop efficiency and pressure rates when paired with sound technique.
Common Questions and Clarifications
Are current roster measurements consistent with Kearse’s era?
Today’s combine and official team listings continue to report height and weight in imperial units for U.S. prospects. Modern outside linebackers often range from 6 ft 2 in to 6 ft 4 in and 255–275 lb, showing continuity in the physical demands of the position. Variations of a few pounds or inches can reflect measurement timing (combine versus in-season), training adjustments, or positional role within a scheme.
How do teams validate reported height and weight?
Teams verify combine data through medical evaluations and repeated testing at team workouts. Any revisions after the combine are typically minor and reflect different measurement methods (e.g., shoe vs. barefoot, uniform vs. practice gear). For historical players like Kearse, team media guides and scouting reports serve as the best available corroboration.
Summary Takeaways
- Reported height: 6 ft 3 in (190.5 cm)
- Reported weight: ~260 lb (118 kg) at combine and early pro years
- Arm length: 34 inches; hand span: 10 inches
- Physical tools supported edge-setting, run fit, and pass-rush impact
- Compared favorably to prototypical outside linebacker sizes of the era
Jevon Kearse’s height and weight were consistent with the ideal outside linebacker measurements of his time, enabling a productive career defined by impactful pass-rushing and steady run defense. Documented combine and team data provide a reliable baseline for understanding how his physical profile matched performance and positional expectations over time.