Kansas City Chiefs: Small-School Draft Targets

Jan 21, 2015; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad fullback Jalston Fowler of Alabama (45) catches a pass against safety Jaquiski Tartt of Samford (6) during Senior Bowl South squad practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports

Jaquiski Tartt – S – Samford – 6’1″, 221 lbs

Thus far the prospects we have looked at are on the offense, so it’s time we look at a possible small-school defensive prospect. I think Samford safety Jaquiski Tartt would make a great target for the Chiefs. Tartt is an impressive physical specimen at 6’1″, 221 pounds and clocked a 4.47 40-yard dash at his pro day. While he played a lot of single-high safety at Samford and has good speed, most believe he is better suited to play more of a strong safety role in the NFL.

Draft Breakdown has one video of Tartt, showcasing his game against Auburn. More than anything, it showed me Tartt was physically capable of competing with one of the premier teams in the SEC. After watching him play, I think he would be a great player to groom for the position that Eric Berry has played in the Chiefs defense. Tartt has the size and physicality to play “in-the-box” near the line of scrimmage where he could help with run support or pick up backs or tight ends in coverage.

Dane Brugler of CBS finished the summary of Tartt in his 2015 Draft Guide (also highly recommended) with:

"Tartt, who will be the fourth Samford defensive player drafted since 2006, shows too many inconsistencies to start as a rookie, but with his imposing size, smooth athleticism and football character, he has the upside to compete for a starting job by year two – early day three selection, but will likely be off the board in the top-100 picks."

Tartt would be another strong option in the third or fourth round for the Chiefs. He would make a great developmental project, special-teamer, and insurance policy in case Tyvon Branch and Berry can’t see the field because of injury/health problems.

So there you have it, Addicts: some small-school draft prospects for the Chiefs to target in the coming draft. What do you think? Are you a fan of any of these guys as well? Are there other small-school prospects you like more? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

As always, thanks for reading and GO CHIEFS!!!!!!