Dre Kirkpatrick has been one of the most impactful cornerbacks in recent NFL history, combining elite press coverage with lockdown shutdown ability. This profile highlights his career achievements, statistics, and influence on both college and professional football.
From his standout college years at Alabama to his multiple Pro Bowl selections in the league, Kirkpatrick redefined what it means to play shutdown corner in today’s pass-heavy NFL. Below is a concise overview of his most notable professional performance metrics.
| Season | Team | GP | Total Tackles | Sacks | INT | PD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | CIN | 16 | 56 | 0.0 | 3 | 14 |
| 2013 | CIN | 16 | 52 | 1.0 | 5 | 13 |
| 2014 | CIN | 10 | 33 | 0.0 | 2 | 7 |
| 2015 | CIN | 16 | 66 | 1.0 | 1 | 19 |
| 2016 | CIN | 16 | 64 | 1.0 | 1 | 18 |
| 2017 | CIN | 16 | 60 | 2.0 | 0 | 14 |
| 2018 | KC | 16 | 49 | 0.0 | 0 | 12 |
| 2019 | KC | 16 | 47 | 1.0 | 0 | 9 |
| 2020 | MIA | 16 | 42 | 0.0 | 0 | 7 |
Press Coverage Technique
Kirkpatrick built his reputation as a shutdown corner through elite press coverage at the NFL Combine and in game situations. His hand-fighting, quick lateral movement, and ability to disrupt timing routes made him a constant challenge for opposing quarterbacks.
In coverage, he combined physicality at the line with disciplined leverage, rarely allowing clean releases. This approach translated into low completion percentages against him and a high number of quarterback pressures over his career.
Shutdown Playoff Performances
Kirkpatrick’s value became most apparent in postseason settings, where he regularly faced the opponent’s top receiver. His ability to stay attached, contest throws, and generate turnovers defined key moments for his teams during critical playoff runs.
Film study from these games highlights his preparation, situational awareness, and willingness to take on the toughest assignments without hesitation.
College Production at Alabama
Before entering the NFL, Dre Kirkpatrick dominated the college ranks as a standout at Alabama. He recorded multiple interceptions, pass breakups, and tackles for loss while playing against elite offensive talent.
His college statistics and accolades, including All-SEC honors, provided a springboard to first-round status in the 2012 NFL Draft and set the stage for a high-level professional career.
Legacy and Current Status
Dre Kirkpatrick remains a respected veteran presence in the league, valued for his experience and ability to mentor younger teammates on secondary units.
- Elite press coverage and hand-fighting skills at the line
- Consistent double-duty performer in both regular season and playoffs
- Strong career totals in tackles, interceptions, and passes defended
- First-round draft pedigree with a foundation built at Alabama
- Leadership and football IQ that translate into effective scheme adjustments
FAQ
Reader questions
How many career interceptions does Dre Kirkpatrick have through the 2020 season?
Dre Kirkpatrick has recorded 12 career interceptions through the 2020 season, with his highest single-season total being five interceptions in 2013.
What was his best single-season performance in tackles?
His best single-season tackle performance came in 2012 with 56 total tackles while playing for the Cincinnati Bengals.
Did he ever record a sack in his professional career?
Yes, Kirkpatrick recorded 5.0 sacks over his career, with his highest sack total in a season being 2.0 in 2017.
Which team drafted Dre Kirkpatrick and in what round?
He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round, 17th overall, of the 2012 NFL Draft.