Breaking Down The Kansas City Chiefs Draft Needs By Position

DEFENSIVE LINE:

Nov 18, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) is pressured byKansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Dontari Poe (92) in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Players Currently On The Roster:

Dontari Poe (starter)
Mike DeVito (starter)
Vance Walker (starter)
Allen Bailey
Mike Catapano
Jaye Howard
Dominique Hamilton
Cory Grissom
Risean Broussard
Chas Alecxih

Would the Chiefs be okay if they started the season with just the players they currently have?

Yes, I guess. The only contributor they lost was Tyson Jackson and they replaced him with Vance Walker. They have three NFL level backups in Bailey, Catapano, and Howard so they could go with what they have currently on the roster. However, the best defenses have multiple starting caliber players that they rotate to keep guys fresh and keep constant pressure on opposing QBs. I’m not sure that they have that depth in place yet.

Would the Chiefs prefer to get an upgraded starter at this position?

Hard to say. Do they want Walker starting in the base 3-4? Do they want him strictly as a passing down interior rusher? What are their plans for Catapano? I believe they would probably like one more starting caliber player, but that it isn’t a necessity.

Are the Chiefs in need of adding depth or a long term replacement player at this position?

Yes. Dontari Poe had to play way too many steps last season and if KC wants to keep him fresh and dominant they need more high level defensive linemen to rotate in. They could really use more defensive linemen with pass rush upside. If Howard and Bailey were beat out this season by better players that would be a good thing.

Draft Need Rating: 7