As the calendar turns to the NFL Scouting Combine, it’s time for a mock draft. Currently, the Chiefs have seven picks in the 2018 NFL Draft. What positions should the Chiefs target early on with their picks? Will all the picks be on the defensive side of the ball? Let’s find out.
Round 2, 54th Overall
D.J. Reed, Cornerback, Kansas State
The Chiefs have had a recurring problem at the cornerback position the last couple of years, and now Marcus Peters has been traded. Personally, I think it would be a gift if Reed lasts this long, but cornerback is often a tough pick to get right. Reed is one of the more aggressive cornerbacks in this class. Reed’s blazing speed allows him to run with any receiver downfield and close down on a route when the ball is in the air. His physicality is also something that stands out in this cornerback class. Reed does a great job of tackling and getting off blocks to get there.
Round 3, 78th Overall
Derrick Nnadi, Defensive Lineman, Florida State
Finding a nose tackle, is something else the Chiefs need to do for 2018, especially if Bennie Logan does not return after a one year stint. Nnadi looks like one of the best run defenders in this draft class among the defensive linemen. Nnadi seems to have a great nose for finding the ball, and being able to throw down opposing running backs. He is not known for his pass rushing, but his work allows other players on the defense to get to the quarterback. Nnadi’s strength on the bull rush, also allows him to push offensive linemen into the quarterback’s pocket. This would be a nice fit along with Chris Jones and Rakeem Nunez-Roches on the defensive line.
Round 3, 86th Overall
Terrell Edmunds, Safety, Virginia Tech
Terrell Edmunds may not be getting as much attention as his brother Tremaine, who will deservedly go down as a first round pick this April, but he should be one of the most talked about safeties in the draft class. Edmunds plays at one hundred miles an hour on every snap, but it isn’t out of control. On tape, you can tell that his coverage skills got better throughout his college career. In coverage, Edmunds reads opposing quarterbacks like a book. The presence that Edmunds bring to a secondary could be important for the Chiefs, if you could pair that along with Eric Berry. The biggest thing that stands out with Edmunds though, his instincts and football IQ is off the charts.
Round 4, 122nd Overall
Simmie Cobbs Jr., Wide Receiver, Indiana
The first offensive selection in this draft, takes a look at wide receiver. Cobbs Jr. would be able to complement someone like Tyreek Hill perfectly, because he is a possession type of receiver, rather than a speedster. Cobbs Jr.’s big frame makes it difficult for cornerbacks to go up and take the ball from him. Also, Cobbs Jr. does a nice job of using his hands and being consistently good as a pass catcher. Cobbs Jr. could also still be coming into his own. He suffered a devastating ankle injury in game one of 2016, which ended his junior season and required surgery.
Round 4, 124th Overall
Christian Sam, Linebacker, Arizona State
With this pick, the Chiefs may have to stretch a little bit, as they do not have another pick over the next eighty-four selections. Sam would be a nice fit along side Reggie Ragland, because they are both pure tackling machines. In fact, it seems like Sam never misses a tackle and that would be a nice thing for the Chiefs to have at inside linebacker. Sam’s tape shows that he is another player like the aforementioned Edmunds, who plays fast, but not out of control. Sam also looks to play with a lot of pride, and his style of play is authoritative.
Round 6, 209th Overall
Joe Ostman, EDGE, Central Michigan
The Chiefs would be smart to add another guy who can rush the passer. Dee Ford’s injury history and contract situation put him in a tough position and the Chiefs need to stock up the pass rush, besides what they have with Justin Houston. Ostman is a hard worker, who could be a rotational player along the defensive line. Ostman’s pass rushing skills are amazing to watch, as he is powerful and very fast for the type of player he is. Ostman uses his hands violently to get off of blocks and runs at a great pad level, in order to sack the quarterback.
Round 7, 233rd Overall
Linden Stephens, Cornerback, Cincinnati
The final pick goes back to the cornerback position. Linden Stephens is a cornerback who plays the ball very well, and is coverage good as well. Stephens can be very physical when coming on to make a tackle, as well. What may hurt Stephens a little, in the NFL there’s no guarantee on whether he will play outside or in the slot.
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