Four Potential Cuts The Chiefs May Keep An Eye On

Sep 14, 2013; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Corey Nelson (7) during the game against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Oklahoma won 51-20. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

COREY NELSON

Injury prone and slightly undersized, the former Oklahoma Sooners linebacker fell in the draft even though he has very interesting upside as a pass rusher.

Nelson was knocked out of last season by a torn pectoral muscle, yet another injury in a career riddled with them. But when he is healthy he is a very intriguing pass rusher who has a history of being strong on special teams.

As things stand now the Chiefs have four outside linebackers in Tamba Hali, Justin Houston, Dee Ford, and Frank Zombo. Zombo is considered more of a run-stopper than a pass rusher. Adding another pass rusher to the mix would add some depth to the Chiefs, which is something they have shown they desperately need. This was especially true in the week 12 game against San Diego when both Hali and Houston were knocked out of the game.

Nelson’s injury history means that he probably cannot be relied upon as a future starter. But with his ability to rush the passer from the outside or inside plus his excellence on special teams he would become an interesting target for the Chiefs if Nelson failed to make his current team.

That team right now happens to be the Denver Broncos who have just signed DeMarcus Ware and have Von Miller. Whether or not there is enough room to keep Nelson on the roster is unknown, but, like the Chiefs, Denver may be looking for that extra pass rush depth.