Predicting fate of Kansas City Chiefs’ draft class

D.J. White, DB, Georgia Tech

Here we get into the guys who most likely won’t make the 53-man roster but will get a fair shake in camp and preseason. White matches the size of both the other corners drafted by the Chiefs but he lacks the speed and physicality. His tackling is suspect as he tends to wrap up high and allow bigger guys to get extra yards.

His positives include a big time vertical to challenge taller receivers and an ability to break up the pass without drawing a flag. White may get ahead of guys like Marcus Cooper but the experience of Jamell Fleming may force White to be a late camp cut.

Dadi Nicolas, DE, Virginia Tech

This may be the sixth rounder that everyone is looking for in Kansas City. Nicolas has an uncanny ability to get to the quarterback despite his size at only 235 pounds. His lack of strength and weight make getting out of a three point stance almost impossible but his speed and quickness are perfect for edge-rushing from a standing position.

If Nicolas can improve his strength his moves will only get better behind the likes of Tamba Hali and Justin Houston. Most likely he won’t supplant Dee Ford as Houston’s primary replacement but don’t be surprised if he makes a splash in camp and preseason, earning him some playing time come September.

Conclusion

The Chiefs found enough talent in this draft to have roughly five or six guys make the final roster. I don’t see anyone starting against San Diego on September 11 but there will be at least three that get solid playing time in that first game. Overall I would say that it was a positive draft for providing depth to an already strong roster with only a few missteps.

If the Chiefs could re draft that fifth round then the grade would most likely be in the B-A range and they may have found 7-8 guys worth keeping.

What do you think Addicts? What will be the fate of these nine players as workouts and training camp approach? Let us know in the comments below.