
Mizzou’s 2026 recruiting efforts get started with a big, versatile, defensive lineman.
Missouri’s first commit of the 2026 class comes from the state of Arkansas, one of Eli Drinkwitz’s favorite states to plunder athletes from. And while the first commit might not be an elite blue chip, a prized quarterback, or even an in-state tight end, it’s still an important piece to add to the team in the versatile defensive lineman Anthony Kennedy, Jr.
Where He Fits: Kennedy is a 3-star defensive end according to Rivals and ESPN while 247 and On3 have pegged him as a 4-star non-descript defensive lineman. His current Hudl film is only a minute long but it shows his ability to line up anywhere. The majority of the snaps you see him take is as a 3-technique interior lineman lined up between the guard and tackle. In those plays you see him bully his way through the line to provide pressure on the QB or take down the ball carrier. As an edge rusher he’s fairly slow on his get off but does a good job of taking routes to the ball. Each site has him down for various heights and weight but, on average, he’s about 6’3” and 285 pounds which puts him as a bigger end or a slightly underweight tackle at the next level. Obviously the staff has an elite strength and conditioning program to have him fit in wherever but his skillset seems like more of an interior lineman than an edge player.
When he’ll play: I see a lot of raw talent here that definitely needs some refinement. Playing on the line is tough for even the best linemen and I think Kennedy could use a year or two in the gun club before he needs to contribute on the field.
What it all means: Missouri starts its next recruiting campaign by nabbing a player from some fairly elite company, including Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Kansas State, LSU, Miami, Michigan…you get the idea. While he’s not an instant-impact type of player it is just as important to get as many program/development guys and bring them up through the program to keep the culture strong and make sure they’re ready to contribute positively. This is a great commitment and furthers the narrative of Arkansas players heading north to play college ball.
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