With free agent signings and trades completed, it’s time for another mock draft. We are around a month away from hearing the 2018 NFL prospects get their names called, and begin their NFL careers. The Chiefs have options.
Round 2, 54th Overall
Duke Ejiofor, EDGE, Wake Forest
In this latest mock, the Chiefs attack the defensive line with the first pick. Justin Houston does so much for the Chiefs, but with Dee Ford coming off a major back injury from last season, the pass rush clearly needs more help. Ejiofor has 23.5 career sacks, and he has the body type that is coveted for edge rushers in the NFL. Besides his pass rush skills and consistency in tackling, Ejiofor’s instincts is something that will help him tremendously against NFL playmakers.
Round 3, 78th Overall
M.J. Stewart, Cornerback, North Carolina
A cornerback who is well-rounded and can do it all in coverage. Steward recorded 12 pass breakups in 2017, and he added 5 tackles for loss as well. On tape, Stewart shows a passion for the game and he adds a toughness to the defense. Stewart has really garnered momentum following some strong Senior Bowl practices and NFL Combine performances, giving him a high ceiling going into the NFL Draft.
Round 3, 86th Overall
Kyzir White, Safety, West Virginia
The Chiefs go defensive back again with their second 3rd Round pick. Kyzir White is a thumper at safety, who could complement Eric Berry perfectly. Daniel Sorensen did not cut it last year, and Eric Murray has little experience and advantages against opposing offensive players. White could be the final piece of the puzzle need to trying and complete the future secondary in Kansas City.
Round 4, 122nd Overall
R.J. McIntosh, Defensive Lineman, Miami (FL)
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Another defensive lineman for Kansas City. McIntosh could rotate with newly signed Xavier Williams at defensive tackle, as both excel at run stopping. McIntosh suffocates opponents with his unbelievable speed and runners halt once McIntosh gets his hands on them. Along with McIntosh’s speed, his size makes him an intriguing prospect here in Round 4.
Round 4, 124th Overall
Taylor Hearn, Guard, Clemson
With Zach Fulton joining the Texans, it wouldn’t hurt to add depth along the offensive line. Plus, the offensive skill positions are pretty much filled up. Hearn is still developing as a blocker, but he has shown enough to be worth a draft pick.
Round 6, 196th Overall
D’Montre Wade, Cornerback, Murray State
Again another defensive back here to the Chiefs in the 6th Round. Wade is a confident, physical cornerback who plays the ball well. Wade is also versatile enough, if a team wanted to try him at cornerback/safety hybrid role, similar to former Chief Ron Parker. If the Chiefs get Wade, he may be used mostly in zone coverage.
Round 7, 233rd Overall
Nick DeLuca, Linebacker, North Dakota State
The Chiefs do have Reggie Ragland and newly signed Anthony Hitchens for the middle of the defense, but behind them, there is little depth for middle linebackers. DeLuca is an instinctive linebacker. He wears his heart on his sleeve on the field and really loves the game of football. DeLuca can even drop back and cover in zone coverage.
Round 7, 243rd Overall
Jordan Thomas, Tight End, Mississippi State
There was some news that the Chiefs could add a veteran tight end Benjamin Watson in free agency, but that news stalled and nothing else appears imminent. Thomas can pair with Travis Kelce and Demetrius Harris to give Mahomes another weapon if needed. Thomas has a background of playing college basketball, and he’s even previously played defensive end and offensive tackle in football, so he must have a strong ability to succeed. Andy Reid is also a coach who loves to run three tight end sets.
