Mock drafts have become like opinions. Everyone seems to have one and no one else likes ’em. So why not add more fun to the offseason?
2(58) – Dorance Armstrong, OLB/EDGE, Kansas (6 foot 4 /257 pounds)
Only my opinion, but there are few players in the draft fit both a need (edge rusher/outside linebacker) and talent quite like Armstrong. Despite the loss of Marcus Peters, the need at edge rusher, especially one that can play the run, remains the number one draft priority.
Obviously, at some point in the near future, Tamba Hali will either be released or retire. The same may very well hold true with Frank Zombo. It appears the Chiefs are likely stuck with Dee Ford for the 2018 season unless they are able to trade him, and Justin Houston has now become cheaper to let go than to keep. Not likely an issue this offseason, but next offseason could very well be a different story.
Armstrong has the tools and athleticism to contribute immediately on a defense that is desperate for pressure opposite of Justin Houston. Armstrong could really use a good strength and conditioning coach, as he needs to become more stout and stronger at the point of attack. That being said, the tools are all there for Armstrong to be an immediate contributor for the Chiefs in 2018.
Dorance Armstrong’s Draft profile
3 (78) – Tim Settle, NT, Virginia Tech ( 6 foot 3 / 329 pounds)
Regardless of if the Chiefs bring back Bennie Logan, it’s obvious the Chiefs could use some size along the interior. To that end, insert massive tackle Tim Settle from the Virginia Tech program. After this defense displayed issues both stopping the run and pushing the pocket, changes were in store. Settle is an athletic human for his size.
Obviously, with his size, lining Settle along the nose position would be ideal. Plays with good pad level and size. Settle has experience at Virginia Tech playing over the nose, which is something Dontari Poe did not.
While Settle obviously still has things to work on, especially technique, there is a lot to work with. This continue the Chiefs quest to address their defensive front with young talent after adding Kendall Fuller and David Amerson in off season moves.
3 (86) – DeShon Elliott, S Texas (6 foot 1 / 210 pounds)
The Chiefs love safeties that can play in the box like linebackers. Elliott is a big bodied safety that can play in the box but also has some ability to play some deep safety. Has experience playing a ‘nickel/dime’ linebacker. Shows the ability and willingness to deliver a solid tackle, something this defense has been lacking in years, a physical thumper. Plays downhill.
Elliott isn’t exactly a great cover safety or ‘center fielder’ type.
4 (122) – Wyatt Teller, G, Virginia Tech ( 6 foot 4 / 314 pounds)
4 (124) – Nathan Shepherd, DT, Fort Hays State (6 foot 5 / 315 pounds)
6 (209) – Brandon Parker, OT, North Carolina A&T (6 foot 7 / 310 pounds)
7 (233) – Michael Dickson, P, Texas (6 foot 2 / 208 pounds)
7 (244) – Richie James, WR, Middle Tennessee (5 foot 10 / 183 pounds)