Chiefs draft options: Ample possibilities

Shilique Calhoun, OLB, Michigan State —–& Christian Westerman, OG, Arizona State

Although there’s a few intriguing pass rushers in the later rounds, it’s looking like if you want a dynamic edge rusher in this draft class you’re going to have to use a first round pick for it. Calhoun wouldn’t be ready for a full-time role right away, but his pass rushing ability would put him in a rotation with Tamba Hali and Dee Ford immediately and would likely still be in the mix once Justin Houston returns. I’m a firm believer that the Chiefs need to add a guard in this year’s draft at some point who can come in and compete for a starting spot day one. Westerman, a smart and athletic guard who projects well in a zone-blocking scheme, could be that guy.

Robert Nkemdich, DL, Ole Miss —– Sterling Shepard, WR, Oklahoma

The Chiefs took on a chance on a talented but troubled player last year and it payed off so it’s possible they could be looking to do the same, this time on a defensive lineman. Nkemdiche is a guy who is considered a top-10 talent but will likely fall on draft night due to his off-field concerns and questionable effort in some games. The Chiefs have strong leaders on their team, particularly on defense, so Nkemdiche might be a risk worth taking. Another position I feel strongly about the Chiefs taking in the draft is a slot receiver who’s already a polished route runner. Shepard perfectly fits this mold, and I believe he will as much of an impact as the receivers who’ll be taken in the first round.

So, there we have it ,Addicts. These combinations weren’t so much about the specific players but rather the positions and scheme fits the Chiefs will likely be targeting, especially early in the draft. For example, guys like Braxton Miller, Chris Jones, Artie Burns, and Cody Whitehair could have been substituted at their respective positions and the Chiefs would get very similar value and impact.

Next: Wrapping it up