Scouting Report: Koloi Keli

 

Scouting Report: Koloi Keli

Vitals:

• Height: ~6'2"

• Weight: 290 pounds

• Position: Offensive Line (currently tackle in HS, projects inside at college level)

• School: Farrington High School (Honolulu, Hawaii)

Overview:
 
Koloi Keli might not turn heads immediately with eye-popping measurables, but once the tape rolls, it’s clear he’s one of the most physically dominant linemen in his class. At around 6-2 and 290 pounds, Keli has a naturally compact build that lends itself well to interior line play. His combination of foot speed, heavy hands, and nastiness stands out, and he brings a relentless attitude to every snap.

Run Blocking:

If there’s one phrase that best describes Keli as a run blocker, it’s “moves bodies at will.” The video showcases his ability to engage defenders and drive them downfield — often finishing plays with opponents either flattened or driven completely out of the play. His quickness off the ball is immediate, and he gets into defenders before they can react, using that first-step burst to establish leverage.

Perhaps the most impressive clip comes about 25 seconds into the video on a screen pass: Keli sprints down the hash, picking off a defensive back in space with excellent timing and force. Plays like this highlight his athleticism and ability to operate in space, a trait rarely so refined at the high school level.

Pass Protection:

While most of his highlights are run-heavy, Keli’s pass protection technique also flashes upside. Camp drill footage shows his impressive lateral quickness and recovery ability. He uses his feet and strong base to mirror rushers effectively, while his hands deliver a powerful initial strike that stalls defenders. Although these reps aren’t as visually dominant as his run blocking, they are crucial indicators that his skills will translate to college-level pass sets.

Technique and Tools:

Keli’s footwork is arguably his biggest selling point. In a showcase earlier this year, he was widely regarded as having the best feet among all linemen present — regardless of position. This agility helps him reach second-level blocks and reset against quicker defenders. His hand placement is violent and deliberate; when he engages, defenders feel it immediately. Even when momentarily beaten at the snap, his natural athleticism and balance allow him to recover quickly.

Physicality and Mentality:

Keli is a classic "plays through the whistle" lineman. Nearly every highlight ends with his man on the ground, and he shows a consistent mean streak that coaches love. This relentless edge sets the tone for an offensive line and speaks to his competitive nature.

Projection:

At Farrington, Keli plays tackle, but his frame and skill set project best inside at the college level, likely at guard or center. Comparisons to Oregon center Iapani Laloulu (“Poncho”) are natural — they share the same high school roots and similar developmental arcs. Like Laloulu, Keli might be a surprise riser who ends up a key piece of the interior line despite not being the highest-rated recruit.

Final Thoughts:

Keli’s recruiting profile may not match the star-studded metrics fans often obsess over, but he’s a “stock-up” prospect with a high ceiling. His blend of quick feet, strong hands, lateral agility, and finishing mentality makes him a true enforcer in the trenches. With continued development and a move inside, he could become a long-term starter and culture-setter for Oregon’s offensive line. 

JUNIOR HIGHLIGHTS

Prospect Highlight:@Koloi_2026

Junior highlights, W4Y showcase, & spring workouts.@BrandonHuffman @AnaeCoach @FBCoachM @coach_faavi @GarinJustice @coach_cavanaugh @CoachTuitele @CoachNua @CoachTuioti92 @DjTialavea_86 @CoachJsalavea @CoachKaufusi @JohnEstes55 @TevitaLose… pic.twitter.com/ILp2uSKmmh

— Coach Mike Lafaele (@coach_lafaele) March 24, 2025