Locked on Chiefs: Changing the KC Draft plan

Kansas City Chiefs general manager John Dorsey’s draft plan is rapidly changing in the lead-up to the NFL combine.

As little as three days ago, it was clear that the Kansas City Chiefs had a number of options they could pursue in the first two days of the NFL draft. The recent events in the last 72 hours prior to the combine in Indianapolis will be shifting that plan — not dramatically but it allows them room to maneuver in versatile ways.

The new contract for Laurent Duvernay-Tardif changes the way they approach the offensive line in the 2017 draft. John Dorsey and Andy Reid are clearly happier with the development of LDT than was previously thought. Although Parker Ehinger’s injury is still a large question mark, the contract allows the team to drop an early round guard selection from its bigger priorities.

The new 6-year, $78 million contract for safety Eric Berry ensures that a safety is now low on the list of needs. With Berry and Ron Parker set to start in 2017 along with Marcus Peters, the emphasis for the secondary will now solely be placed on a No. 2 cornerback.

The end of an era

The release of Jamaal Charles, while expected, is still gut-wrenching. It was thought that a restructure or even a cut-and-re-sign scenario could unfold, but that option is no longer viable. That puts the running back position higher on the need list.

While Spencer Ware is a capable running back, the depth behind him is now alarmingly thin. Charcandrick West took a step back in 2016 and Knile Davis is set to depart via free agency. The team also has Darrin Reaves waiting for an opportunity. But with Charles’ departure, the team needs to find an impact running back in this April’s draft. Where that could be taken will be hard to nail down. Luckily for Kansas City, running back draft class is very stout this year.

Further changes to the draft plan could occur dependent on the outcome of Dontari Poe’s contract situation and any possible maneuvering at quarterback.

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