What better time to do your first full mock draft then the day before the draft starts? While I do think the Chiefs will be making at least one move in the draft, I won’t be making any trades in this mock draft to keep it simple. Let’s get to it. Here is my full mock draft for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Round 1, Pick 32: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU
Secondary is the Chiefs’ biggest need in my opinion, which is why I will be addressing that area a few times in this draft. First off, Jeff Gladney makes his way to Kansas City with the 32 overall pick. Gladney has a lot of traits that will help the Chiefs. Most importantly, he is very versatile in coverage. Being able to play in man and zone coverage is very important for a Steve Spagnuolo defense.
His footwork and fluidity make it look easy for Gladney to stay with any receiver. While his tackling could use some work, he is more than willing to stick his nose in to plays and help on runs. He is a bit undersized, but he more than makes up for it with his playmaking ability and closing speed. Gladney would be a welcomed addition to the Chiefs’ secondary.
Round 2, Pick 63: Matt Hennessy, C Temple
The interior offensive line is another focal point for the Chiefs this offseason. With Laurent Duvernay-Tardif and others being possible cuts, the need is clear. Matt Hennessy has the ability to fill any of the three interior positions. He is super athletic with quick hands, allowing him to excel at getting his hands on defenders before they get their hands on him. Meanwhile his size and overall strength limit his run blocking ability, his agility and athleticism make him a great pass blocker.
Round 3, Pick 96: Logan Wilson, ILB Wyoming
Another weak spot on the defensive side of the ball is the linebacker situation. While Damien Wilson and Anthony Hitchens are serviceable, they simply aren’t good enough for Kansas City to be competitive for years to come. Enter Logan Wilson.
The do-it-all linebacker from Wyoming has the capability to be on the field for all three downs. He is instinctive and seems to know where the ball is going. He makes quick reads and attacks. While he is viable in passing situations, he thrives in the run game. Wilson could be an immediate impact on this defense.
Round 4, Pick 138: Kenny Robinson, S West Virginia (XFL)
What’s better than adding defensive pieces to join the best offense in football? Even more defensive pieces to join the best offense in football! This one is special too. How often do you get to draft a player who has professional playing experience? To my knowledge, this is the first.
Kenny Robinson played last season for the St. Louis Battlehawks, where he showed that he has what it takes to play at the next level. The ball hawk had two interceptions in his five XFL games, adding to his seven that he got in his 23 games at West Virginia. He has smooth feet and hips which should help him transition to covering the top level of competition. If he’s not playing centerfield, Robinson is best served making plays downhill. He could be a great replacement for Tyrann Mathieu, if the Chiefs decide to not bring him back when his contract is up.
Round 5, Pick 177: L’Jarius Sneed, CB Louisiana Tech
The cornerback turned safety saw his draft stock take a hit after a shaky final year playing at safety. Before the move, however, Sneed was thought to be in the top 100 prospect discussion. He is an athletic standout, as his combine numbers proved. He ran a 4.37 40 yard dash to go along with 41” and 131” vertical and broad jumps, respectively. He excels in zone coverage, which is best at hiding his tendency to peek at the quarterback from time to time. His athleticism alone should allow him to find his way onto the field. Bookending the draft with a pair of cornerbacks, should give the Chiefs a couple of options to improve their secondary.
While the offense does have a couple spots to improve (running back, receiver to replace impending losses), the defense is easily the biggest need in this year’s offseason. I am hoping that the Chiefs’ front office feels the same way and attacks the defensive side of the ball. That being said, I have complete trust in Brett Veach.
