2017 NFL Draft: 8 players Chiefs could target in first round
By John McCarty
Raekwon McMillan, MLB, Ohio State (6-foot-2, 243 pounds, Junior)
Everything that was stated when we discussed Vanderbilt’s Zach Cunningham still holds true here. As opposed to the athletic and speedy Cunningham, McMillan is your classic big middle linebacker. Number to number, McMillan is a force on the inside.
Perhaps McMillan’s greatest strength is his tackling and ability to hit and drive. Rarely is a ball-carrier dragged to the ground, no, they are knocked to the ground. Shows an ability to diagnose and attack plays, moving quickly but under control to make plays. Combined with his size and instincts, McMillan is a pure force, especially in the run game.
Concerns about McMillan, at least as I view it, is his ability to play in space and in the Chiefs specific scheme. In essence, McMillan is an old-school box middle linebacker, owning that ground with power and force. However, is he an every down linebacker?
Not nearly the pure athlete as the aforementioned Cunningham nor does he have the ability to cover and work down the field in coverage. Strikes me more of a zone, Tampa 2 style middle linebacker, as he does appear at times to be able to move backwards in zone type overages.
As can be seen, I do believe the Chiefs focus will be on defense. As the organization emphasizes winning on defense, they must ensure they are always adding elite talent to that side of the ball. However, finding a quarterback that the organization can groom for a year would not only be a welcome change, but provide a stepping stone for the future at the position.