Kirkland is not overly instinctive. There are times when he takes a little longer to react and see what it is in front of him. When he does trust what he sees, he accelerates in a hurry to the football. He can be a sideline to sideline player versus the run.
His greatest strength is as a blitzer when hes turned loose to just attack. Flashes the potential to possibly be an edge rusher if asked to do so.
Hes not a violent player. I dont mean he is soft or that he doesnt bring the physical part of his game when needed, but he doesnt shock blockers and ball carriers when he hits them. He stands out with his pursuit more than his tackling.