Breaking Down The Kansas City Chiefs Draft Needs By Position

LINEBACKER:

Oct 13, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali (left) celebrates with outside linebacker Justin Houston (50) after a sack against the Oakland Raiders in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won the game 24-7. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Players Currently On The Roster:

Tamba Hali (starter)
Justin Houston (starter)
Derrick Johnson (starter)
Joe Mays (starter)
Frank Zombo
Nico Johnson
James-Michael Johnson
Dezman Moses
Ridge Wilson
Josh Martin
Alonzo Highsmith

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

Yes. The Chiefs have three Pro Bowl starters and signed the solid veteran Joe Mays to man the 4th starting spot. They also have a few solid NFL caliber backups in Zombo and the two other Johnsons.

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

No. The starters are fine. If they felt like an ILB that was a major upgrade over Mays fell into their laps they might consider it.

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

Yes. With Tamba’s increasing age and salary the Chiefs need to begin looking for a long term replacement. While not an urgent priority for this season, I wouldn’t be surprised if Tamba was a cap casualty next offseason. That would be easier to stomach if they already had an in house replacement.

Draft Need Rating: 4