A Strong Safety May Be More Important For Chiefs In Draft

Dec 21, 2013; Albuquerque, NM, USA; Washington State Cougars safety

during the second half against the Colorado State Rams during the Gildan New Mexico Bowl at University Stadium. The Rams defeated the Cougars 48-45. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

DEONE BUCANNON

HEIGHT: 6-1 WEIGHT: 211 COLLEGE: Washington State

40 TIME: 4.49 BENCH: 19 3-CONE: 6.96

Deone Bucannon is an athletic freak, who would be a force in the NFL if he can translate his athleticism and size into football skill at the next level. Bucannon won the combine, posting top five results in the 40, bench press, vertical jump, broad jump, and 3-cone drill.

His issues is his instincts on the field and football intelligence. Bucannon struggles in man coverage – something the Chiefs play a lot of, even with their safeties – and will from time to time have issues tackling in space. The number one thing a safety has to be able to do in Bob Sutton’s defense is tackle, especially when they play the one-deep.

The raw tools for Bucannon to be a successful football player are there, but does the Chiefs’ scheme fit Bucannon’s football skills? There is a role on the Chiefs for Bucannon but it may not be worth a third round pick. It all depends on how much the Chiefs’ coaching staff thinks Bucannon can develop as a football player.

Rang on Bucannon.

"Boasts an imposing build with broad shoulders and a thick, muscled-up top half. Best attribute may be his explosive hitting, as Bucannon at times appears as though he is shot out of a cannon, unloading on runners and receivers crossing the middle and forcing fumbles. Doesn’t only rely on his big hits to create fumbles, also demonstrating the wherewithal to rip at the ball as he’s making the tackle (career-high three forced fumbles in 2013). Also showed improved range and ball-skills in 2013."

Bucannon is a second or third round pick according to CBS.