2018 NFL mock draft: Chiefs get lots of defensive help per Pro Football Focus
By Matt Conner
No. 54 Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, Oklahoma, EDGE
They say:
"The Chiefs’ first pick of the draft addresses a need as they must find more production rushing the passer off the edge. Okoronkwo produced 21 sacks, 21 QB hits and 69 hurries on 641 rushes over the last three years."
We say:
Most Chiefs fans would love to see at least some pick here at this position, even if it’s not Dorance Armstrong of Kansas or another such player commonly linked to the Chiefs with their first overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Justin Houston needs considerable help as a pass rusher on this team as every attempt to free him up has crashed and burned. The Chiefs keep crossing their fingers each year that Dee Ford will finally break out and prove himself to be a consistent pass rushing threat. Instead, they get fleeting glimpses of such potential amid sloppy play or injury concerns. Ford only played a handful of games last season due to ongoing back issues.
Other than Ford, no one else is stepping up—that is, other than Houston himself who led the team in sacks last year with 9.5. Frank Zombo is a nice role player who is best served as a dependable back-up. Last year’s second round pick Tanoh Kpassagnon was a developmental reach who needed time and so far he’s followed the script according to plan. He’s also shown flashes while also making it tough to depend upon him given how he looks when having to play all three down.
The addition of Okoronkwo would add considerable more potential to the mix, including two consecutive second round choices who could potentially blossom into a great pass rushing tandem to stand along with Houston.