6th Round
Curt Maggitt – OLB – Tennessee
Strengths: NFL-ready build and frame for OLB. Gets after the ball carrier and makes a lot of plays in the backfield. Quick off the ball and has brute strength to push opposing linemen back. Strong run defender who anchors well and can hold the edge. Shows good initial technique to jam up tight ends running routes. Has the agility and balance to drop into short area coverage.
Weaknesses: Not an elite athlete and appears to be at the ceiling for his physical development. Doesn’t possess the speed or quickness to get after the quarterback by any means except his bull rush. Already 23 years old which limits the amount of development that is going to stick. Concerning injury history. Will get burned if asked to repeatedly drop into coverage. Too much of his game is emotional rather than discipline and technique.
The Fit: The Chiefs have managed to retain most of their very talented linebacking corps for the long haul (next UFA will be Dee Ford in 2018). However, depth and Special Teams options are always in demand. Maggitt appears to have a pretty firm ceiling physically, but he was a constant play maker for the Vols. He should fit in well on Special Teams and could potentially become a future situational pass rusher or general third-down linebacker.
Next: 7th Round