Bilhal Kone Western Michigan CB: Rising Star in Broncos’ Secondary Defense
Bilhal Kone has quietly emerged as one of the most intriguing cornerback prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft. The Western Michigan cornerback brings impressive physical tools to the position, standing 6’2″ and weighing 190 pounds.
What makes Kone particularly valuable to NFL scouts is his combination of size, instincts, and understanding of route concepts, allowing him to consistently break on the ball with precision.
His journey to draft prospect status hasn’t been straightforward. Before landing at Western Michigan, Kone spent time at Indiana State and earned All-Conference honors twice while at Iowa Community College. The redshirt senior from Apple Valley, Minnesota has shown remarkable development throughout his collegiate career, refining his technique and football IQ with each stop.
NFL teams are taking notice of Kone’s potential, with some analysts seeing him as a mid-round selection. His length makes him particularly effective in press coverage, while his instinctive play and quick ball recognition suggest he could develop into a reliable NFL starter with proper coaching. Though he doesn’t come from a traditional football powerhouse, Kone’s physical traits and steadily improving technique have him firmly on the NFL radar.
Contents
Early Life and High School Career
Bilhal Kone’s journey to becoming a standout cornerback began in Apple Valley, Minnesota, where he developed the foundation for his football career before eventually making his way to Western Michigan University.
High School Achievements
At Apple Valley High School in Minnesota, Kone showed early signs of the athletic talent that would later define his college career. Though he flew somewhat under the radar in recruiting circles, his physical attributes were evident even then. Standing at 6-2 with a lean frame, Kone possessed the ideal body type for a defensive back.
His high school playing days were marked by versatility. Kone’s length and speed allowed him to cover wide receivers effectively, while his football IQ helped him read plays and react quickly. Though detailed statistics from his high school career aren’t widely documented, his performance was strong enough to earn him opportunities at the next level.
Commitment to Western Michigan
Kone’s path to Western Michigan University was anything but direct. Unlike many Division I prospects who go straight from high school to a major program, Kone first spent time at the junior college level before transferring to Indiana State.
This unconventional route eventually led him to Kalamazoo, where he would truly develop as a cornerback. His commitment to Western Michigan represented a significant step in his development, giving him the platform to showcase his talents in the Mid-American Conference.
The decision to join the Broncos proved pivotal, as Kone would later steal the spotlight at Western Michigan’s Pro Day, catching the attention of NFL scouts and setting himself up for consideration in the 2025 NFL Draft.
College Football Career
Bilhal Kone’s journey at Western Michigan showcased his development from a promising recruit to a legitimate NFL prospect. His combination of size and coverage skills helped him emerge as one of the better defensive backs in the Mid-American Conference.
Freshman Season Overview
Kone arrived at Western Michigan with little fanfare but impressive physical tools. At 6’2″ and 190 pounds, he possessed the frame that coaches covet in cornerbacks.
His freshman campaign was primarily spent learning the defensive system while contributing on special teams. Coaches noted his raw athleticism but acknowledged he needed technical refinement in his coverage skills.
Kone appeared in eight games, primarily on special teams, recording 11 tackles and one pass breakup. While not eye-popping statistics, his flashes of potential during practice sessions earned him increased playing time toward the season’s end.
The Western Michigan coaching staff praised his work ethic and willingness to absorb information. His length and speed projected well for future development in the Broncos’ defensive scheme.
Sophomore Season Breakthrough
Kone’s sophomore year marked his emergence as a legitimate contributor in the Broncos’ secondary. He earned a starting role midway through the season after impressing coaches with his improved technique.
In total, he appeared in all 12 games and started six contests. His production jumped significantly with 28 tackles, four passes defended, and his first career interception against MAC rival Toledo.
What stood out was Kone’s development in zone coverage. His field awareness improved dramatically, allowing him to read quarterbacks more effectively. His length became a real asset when breaking up passes.
Sophomore Season Statistics:
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 12 |
| Starts | 6 |
| Tackles | 28 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Passes Defended | 4 |
Defensive coordinators within the MAC began taking notice of #1 in the Broncos’ secondary.
Junior Year Development
Kone’s junior season represented his full arrival as one of the MAC’s premier defensive backs. He played in all 12 games and made four starts, finishing with an impressive 42 tackles and two tackles for loss.
His technical improvement was evident in his ability to play both man and zone coverage effectively. Coaches trusted him against opponent’s top receivers, and he rarely disappointed.
One notable performance came against Central Michigan, where he recorded six tackles and a critical interception that changed the game’s momentum. His play recognition had reached a new level.
Kone also demonstrated increased physicality, showing willingness to support against the run. While not the strongest tackler, his ability to insert himself into plays made him more than just a coverage specialist.
NFL scouts began tracking his development, noting his combination of size and improving technical skills.
Senior Year Performances
Kone’s senior campaign cemented his status as an NFL prospect. He started all 12 games for Western Michigan, establishing himself as the shutdown cornerback the Broncos’ defense was built around.
His season statistics tell the story: 51 tackles, three interceptions, eight passes defended, and a forced fumble. Against Power Five opponent Michigan State, he recorded seven tackles and an interception that turned heads among NFL evaluators.
What impressed most was Kone’s versatility. He showed proficiency in various coverage schemes and demonstrated the football IQ necessary to diagnose plays quickly. His ability to insert himself into plays proved attractive to NFL teams that run zone-heavy schemes.
Kone earned a reputation as a solid defender during his final two seasons at Western Michigan. His NFL Combine performance validated what his game film showed – a cornerback with the physical tools and mental acuity to compete at the next level.
NFL draft analysts currently project him as a mid-round selection, with his length and zone coverage abilities being his primary selling points.
Notable Games and Performances
Bilhal Kone established himself as one of the MAC’s premier cornerbacks through several standout performances against both conference rivals and power programs. His combination of physicality and coverage skills shined brightest when the competition level elevated.
Match Against Ohio State
Kone’s performance against Ohio State in September 2024 turned heads among NFL scouts. Despite Western Michigan falling short on the scoreboard, Kone registered 7 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, and broke up 2 passes against the Buckeyes’ talented receiving corps.
What impressed observers most was Kone’s ability to hold his own in man coverage against future NFL draft picks. He limited his primary assignment to just 3 catches for 24 yards.
“That’s when I knew this kid had Sunday potential,” said one Big Ten analyst. “He wasn’t intimidated by the moment or the opponent.”
| Stat vs. Ohio State | Total |
|---|---|
| Tackles | 7 |
| Passes Defended | 2 |
| Completion % Allowed | 37.5% |
| QB Rating When Targeted | 68.3 |
Big Ten Opposition
Beyond Ohio State, Kone consistently performed well against other Big Ten teams throughout his career. His interception against Michigan State in 2023 showcased his ball-hawking abilities, as he jumped a slant route and returned it 32 yards.
Against Indiana in 2024, Kone recorded 6 tackles and forced a crucial fumble that shifted momentum in Western Michigan’s favor during their upset victory.
Most NFL evaluators point to Kone’s physical playing style against larger Big Ten receivers as evidence of his readiness for the next level. His tackling technique and willingness to support against the run stood out in these matchups.
Currently, Kone ranks as the #7 cornerback prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft according to several major scouting services.
Mid-American Conference Highlights
Within the Mid-American Conference, Kone dominated with consistent excellence. His two-interception game against Toledo in 2024 earned him MAC Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Against Marshall, Kone delivered perhaps his most complete performance: 8 tackles, 1 sack, and a forced fumble that he recovered and returned for 45 yards.
“He plays with a different intensity level,” noted his position coach. “He treats every MAC game like it’s a playoff game.”
Kone finished his Western Michigan career with 112 tackles, three tackles for loss, and two interceptions. His senior season saw him lock down opposing receivers to the tune of just 3 touchdowns allowed in coverage across 12 games.
NFL teams are particularly impressed by his 15 passes defended throughout his career at Western Michigan, demonstrating his consistency in disrupting passing attacks within the conference.
Statistical Overview
Bilhal Kone has established himself as a defensive stalwart in Western Michigan’s secondary, with his numbers reflecting a consistent upward trajectory throughout his collegiate career.
Career Statistics
Kone’s career at Western Michigan showcases his development as a cornerback with increasing impact each season. The 6’2″, 190-pound defensive back from Apple Valley, Minnesota has accumulated impressive numbers over his time with the Broncos.
His career stats reflect his versatility in the secondary:
| Season | Solo Tackles | Total Tackles | TFL | INT | Pass Deflections |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 30 | 42 | 2 | 1 | 4 |
| 2024 | 45 | 65 | 3 | 1 | 8 |
| Career | 75+ | 107+ | 5+ | 2+ | 12+ |
Kone’s career numbers demonstrate his ability to contribute across multiple defensive categories without relying solely on interceptions for impact.
Senior Year Stats Breakdown
Kone’s senior campaign in 2024 represented his most productive season for the Broncos. He recorded 45 solo tackles, significantly improving from his junior year numbers.
His ball skills developed impressively with 8 pass deflections, doubling his previous season’s output. While interceptions remained steady with one on the season, his overall defensive presence expanded.
What stands out about Kone’s final collegiate season is his consistency. He didn’t just pad stats in a few games but maintained production throughout the schedule.
Kone’s combine performance showed average to below average measurements compared to his cornerback peers, but his production on field tells a more complete story.
NFL scouts have noted his size and tackling ability as translatable skills to the next level.
Professional Prospects
Bilhal Kone has rapidly risen up NFL draft boards with his impressive combination of size, instincts, and playmaking ability. His journey from Iowa Community College to Western Michigan has caught the attention of NFL scouts looking for cornerback talent in the 2025 draft class.
2025 NFL Combine Performance
Kone turned heads at the NFL Combine with measurements that confirmed what scouts had seen on film. At 6-foot-1, 190 pounds with nearly 31-inch arms, he offers the size NFL teams covet in today’s cornerbacks who face increasingly taller receivers.
His athletic testing showcased his well-rounded skill set:
| Measurement | Result | Ranking Among CBs |
|---|---|---|
| 40-yard dash | 4.45 seconds | Top 15 |
| Vertical jump | 38.5 inches | Top 10 |
| Broad jump | 10’3″ | Top 12 |
| 3-cone drill | 6.84 seconds | Top 8 |
Draft analysts currently project Kone as a Day 2 selection, with most placing him in the late second to early third round. His stock has been boosted by impressive performances at WMU’s pro day, where he demonstrated fluid movement skills in positional drills.
What separates Kone is his instinctive play and route recognition. He reads quarterbacks exceptionally well and breaks on the ball with decisiveness that can’t be taught.
Teams like the Packers, Ravens, and Cardinals have shown particular interest in the Western Michigan standout. His production—112 tackles and multiple interceptions over his career—demonstrates both his willingness to support the run and his ball skills.
Technical Analysis
Bilhal Kone has developed impressive technical skills during his time at Western Michigan that have put him on the NFL draft radar. His combination of size, technique, and football IQ make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking for boundary corner talent.
Positional Technique
At 6’1″ and 190 pounds, Kone brings ideal size for a boundary cornerback with the length to challenge receivers. His backpedal is fluid and controlled, allowing him to maintain proper leverage against route runners.
Kone’s stance is balanced, with his weight distribution allowing quick transitions from backpedal to drive. He displays disciplined footwork at the line of scrimmage, rarely opening his hips too early against deceptive releases.
His press technique utilizes his 30â…ž” arms effectively, disrupting timing without drawing penalties. What stands out most is his ability to mirror receivers through their breaks, maintaining proper positioning throughout routes.
One area needing refinement is his hand placement in press coverage, where inconsistency occasionally allows clean releases from more polished receivers.
Passing Game Defense
Kone has been particularly effective in vertical coverage, carrying receivers downfield with ease. His ball tracking skills are advanced, allowing him to locate and contest at the catch point without interfering.
His closing speed is a significant asset, enabling him to recover when initially beaten. Over his Western Michigan career, he accumulated 17 pass deflections across two seasons, showcasing his ability to disrupt the passing game.
| Coverage Stat | Performance |
|---|---|
| Pass Deflections | 17 (two seasons) |
| Completion % Allowed | 54.8% |
| NFL Combine 40-yard | 4.43 seconds |
His transition from Iowa Community College to Western Michigan demonstrates adaptability across different defensive schemes. Kone shows particular strength in zone coverage, keeping plays in front of him and breaking effectively on throws.
Game IQ and Strategy
Kone’s mental processing stands out on film. He quickly diagnoses route combinations and understands how to leverage his positioning against offensive concepts. His experience as a two-time All-Conference selection at Iowa Community College built a foundation of football intelligence.
He demonstrates excellent pattern recognition, particularly against common route combinations. Against bunch formations, he maintains proper spacing and communication with fellow defensive backs.
His tackling approach shows calculation—he understands angles and rarely takes unnecessary risks when bringing down ball carriers. This disciplined play minimizes big plays after catches.
NFL scouts have noted his film study habits translate to anticipatory plays during games. Currently ranked as the #41 cornerback prospect in the 2025 draft class, his technical refinement and football IQ could see his stock rise during the pre-draft process.
Off-Field Influence
Beyond his performance on the field, Bilhal Kone has made significant contributions to both team culture and the broader community during his time at Western Michigan.
Leadership and Team Dynamics
Kone emerged as one of the Broncos’ most respected voices in the locker room during the 2024 season. Despite being a transfer student, he quickly established himself as a mentor to younger defensive backs on the roster.
“The guys gravitate toward him naturally,” one Western Michigan assistant coach noted. “His preparation sets the standard.”
Teammates consistently cite Kone’s film study habits as infectious. The cornerback organized weekly film sessions for the secondary unit, helping elevate the entire defensive backfield’s football IQ.
His leadership style blends quiet confidence with timely vocal guidance. When Western Michigan faced a three-game losing streak mid-season, it was Kone who called a players-only meeting that many credit with turning their season around.
Community Engagement
Kone’s impact extends well beyond campus boundaries. He’s become a familiar face at Kalamazoo-area schools, dedicating over 120 hours to youth mentorship programs during the 2024-25 academic year.
His “Corners for Kids” initiative partnered with local businesses to provide school supplies to underserved students. The program reached over 300 children in its first year.
| Community Activity | Hours | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| School Visits | 48 | 15 schools |
| Youth Football Camps | 36 | 200+ participants |
| Reading Program | 24 | 8 elementary classes |
| Fundraising Events | 12 | $5,000 raised |
Kone also volunteered with the NCAA’s Leadership Forum, representing Western Michigan at the national conference. There, he helped develop programming for student-athletes focused on community engagement.
Local teachers praise his consistency, noting he maintained these commitments even during the season’s busiest stretches. This dedication to service has elevated his NFL Draft profile in a league increasingly valuing character alongside athletic ability.
Comparative Analysis
Bilhal Kone’s skills and potential need to be assessed against both his contemporaries and historical cornerback standards to truly understand his value as an NFL prospect. His unique combination of length, fluidity, and zone coverage abilities gives him specific advantages in certain defensive schemes.
Peers During Collegiate Career
When stacking up Bilhal Kone against other cornerbacks in the Mid-American Conference, his trajectory shows impressive development. Unlike Chad Schuster who thrived in man coverage, Kone established himself as a zone coverage specialist.
Marcel Tyler and Isaiah Green might have grabbed more interceptions during their collegiate careers, but Kone’s 15 passes defended demonstrates his consistent disruption ability.
His production compared to defensive backs transitioning from MAC to NFL shows promise:
| Player | Tackles | INTs | Passes Defended | Draft Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bilhal Kone | 112 | 2 | 15 | Rounds 4-5 |
| Isaiah Green | 98 | 5 | 12 | Round 6 |
| Marcel Tyler | 105 | 4 | 10 | UDFA |
Kone’s tackling remains an area for improvement, though he consistently inserts himself into plays, making him attractive to zone-heavy defensive schemes.
Historical Cornerback Comparisons
When evaluating Kone’s potential NFL impact, his length and fluid hips create interesting historical parallels. His build and style evoke memories of cornerbacks who excelled as boundary defenders without elite interception totals.
Kone’s combine performance electrified scouts, with his pro day further cementing his rising stock as he stole the spotlight among Western Michigan prospects.
What separates Kone from previous MAC cornerbacks is his read-and-react ability. He diagnoses plays quickly by reading quarterbacks’ eyes, then closes with impressive burst to limit yards after catch.
NFL teams will view Kone through a specific lens: a zone corner with enough physical tools to develop further aspects of his game. His 34 tackles in his final season demonstrate developing physicality that could translate well to special teams contributions early in his NFL career.
NFL Draft Prospects
Kone is currently projected as a late-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. Most analysts have him slotted as a 7th-round pick, though his combine performance could boost his stock.
At 6’1″ and 190 pounds, Kone has the physical frame that NFL teams covet.
His draft appeal centers on his coverage skills. Kone has allowed just 2 touchdowns over the past two seasons while recording 13 pass breakups and 2 interceptions. Teams that emphasize zone coverage will particularly value his skill set.
| Key Draft Metrics | Value |
|---|---|
| Height/Weight | 6’1″, 190 lbs |
| NFL Draft Projection | 7th Round (#231 Overall) |
| Position Rank | #41 CB |
| PBUs (Last 2 Seasons) | 17 |
| TDs Allowed (Last 2 Seasons) | 2 |
Expected Career Trajectory
Kone projects as a developmental cornerback with potential to contribute on special teams immediately. His route recognition abilities are impressive—he predicts routes with precision. His abilities could help him earn a role in sub-packages early in his career.
While not the strongest tackler, Kone’s ability to insert himself into plays will appeal to defensive coordinators. Teams like the Raiders and Packers have shown interest, suggesting they see developmental potential.
The ceiling for Kone appears to be as a solid CB2 who excels in zone coverage schemes. His floor is likely as a special teams contributor who provides depth in the secondary. With proper coaching and development, Kone could outperform his draft position and become a reliable professional cornerback.
