Chiefs minicamp: Ramik Wilson and D.J. Alexander speak

On the third day of the 2015 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs aggressively added depth to their inside linebacker position. In the fourth round, general manager John Dorsey took Ramik Wilson from the University of Georgia before snagging D.J. Alexander from Oregon State in the fifth round.

Neither pick was especially surprising. The Chiefs were thought to be in the market for help at the position with 32-year-old Derrick Johnson coming off a torn Achilles tendon and Josh Mauga manning the other starting spot. Mauga was mediocre in Johnson’s place last year, despite leading Kansas City in tackles.

On Sunday, the duo spoke to the media after their second day of rookie minicamp. Wilson talked about his understanding of the depth chart, one he hopes to ascend through during the summer.

"“I already knew beforehand, they already have a Pro Bowler in Derrick (Johnson) and Josh (Mauga) is a great linebacker and the rest of the crew. So I’ve been with the vets, I met with them. We’ve got a good relationship going. They’re trying to help me learn and I’m just going to try and find my role and keep practicing hard.”"

Wilson also said that like most rookies, his head is swimming a little bit with all the new information. Still, he is doing what he can to get involved.

"“It’s alright. It’s been going good. Running new plays and everything and trying to go out and show the coaches that I’m a hard worker, I make plays and I’m trying to help the team.”"

As for Alexander, he detailed the differences he has already noticed from Oregon State to Kansas City.

"“It’s physically and mentally draining. Trying to learn the playbook and get all of these reps in practice, it’s physically and mentally draining on your body.”"

The former Beavers standout also touched on what makes him a great athlete. Alexander is a linebacker who relies heavily on his speed, something that stands out on tape when you watch him.

“It’s just my heart. I’ve always played like that. Growing up, I was at first the youngest one and couldn’t really play football, but once I got that chance, I just kind of took off from there and that aggressiveness never went away.”

It should be fun watching both Wilson and Alexander fight through training camp to see if either or both can earn some real playing time on defense.