Summary

Arden Key was selected in the 3rd Round (#87 Overall) in the 2018 Draft out of LSU. Key is a high‐potential edge rusher with excellent physical tools—size, length, speed, and bend—that make him dangerous off the edge when fully engaged. His strengths lie in his ability to create pressure, use his length, and be disruptive in the pass game. His main challenges are anchoring in the run game, consistency of effort and production, and refining his technique and role clarity. With the right scheme fit and continued development, he offers valuable upside; his floor remains as a capable rotational rusher who can contribute meaningfully.

Strengths

• Pass-Rush Athleticism & Edge Speed: Key shows ability to bend the edge, dip underneath tackles, and close quickly on the quarterback. Key generates pressure with athleticism
  and while at LSU, he posted 12 sacks in 2016.

• Length & Physical Traits for the Position: Standing at 6′5″ with long arms, Key has the frame to contest tackles, stretch the edge, and use leverage to his advantage in pass-rush situations. The extra length and size give him a natural advantage in many matchups.

• Versatility & Upside as a Game-Changer: When fully engaged, Key has shown the potential to make splash plays (sacks, tackles for loss) and be a disruptive force. Since entering the NFL Key has met an expectation to be a high-impact edge rusher in certain down and distance rush packages.

• Improvement in Recent Seasons: After some uneven early years, his production with the Titans has shown a resurgence: For example, in 2024 he logged 42 tackles and 6.5 sacks. Tennessee Titans

Weaknesses

• Run-Defender Play Strength & Anchor Ability: While Key is strong as a pass rusher, his ability to hold up against the run, anchor against bigger blockers, or maintain gap control was less refined. Key can get washed out in the run game.

• Consistency & Effort Issues Earlier in Career: Off-the-field issues, changing weights, injuries, and inconsistent motor were noted as red flags in his early evaluations.

• Technique / Move-Set Depth: While athletic, Key has been critiqued for needing more refined pass-rush moves and better hand usage. When Key can’t rely on pure speed or bend, his success rate drops.

• Durability and Role Definitiveness: Key’s earlier career included injuries (including a shoulder surgery) and shifts between teams, which may have impacted his development and consistency. Additionally, his role has shifted between defensive fronts and responsibilities, which can affect continuity.

Fit & Outlook

Key is best utilized in a scheme that allows him to attack off the edge, use his speed and bend in one-gap or aggressive fronts, and where his run-defensive responsibilities are either supported by scheme or rotations. He fits well as an outside rusher in a front that plays to his strengths rather than demanding heavy two-gap run-anchor duties every snap. If Key continues to improve his consistency, refine his technique, and stay healthy, his upside is as a strong starter edge rusher with multiple sacks per season and disruptive potential. If the limitations (run defense, technique, inconsistencies) linger, his role might stabilize as a rotational rusher rather than an elite every-down force.