2018 NFL draft: Chiefs add Shaquem Griffin, more in new 3-round mock
By Matt Conner
Shaquem Griffin, LB, Central Florida (3rd round)
The pick: There are instant, obvious questions that arise—well, mainly just one—when you first start to discuss Shaquem Griffin, but the Central Florida has done nothing but answer questions concerning having one hand his entire football career. Concerns still linger about his ability to answer them at the highest level, but he’s never been proven wrong yet—and does anyone really want to bet against Griffin at this point?
Griffin has been a highly productive defender wherever he’s gone and no matter what’s been asked of him. Over the last two seasons, he’s had 18.5 sacks, 10 passes defended, 2 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles, 33.5 tackles for loss, and 166 total tackles. Those numbers show off just how well-rounded Griffin is and how hard he works to stand out.
The fit: Griffin projects as a linebacker/safety hybrid, which is ideal for the Chiefs in an NFL shifting to more and more versatile players all over the field on defense. Griffin worked out for scouts doing both defensive back drills and linebacker drills, which shows just how coachable this kid is—that he’s willing to do whatever is asked.
Griffin would be an instant star on special teams and could provide playmaking depth at a few positions until the Chiefs figure out the best way to employ him. Could he really be an answer at free safety? The experience is not there among other questions he’ll have to answer, so it’s too early to project fit, but any team would love to have Griffin around and the Chiefs would not doubt figure out the best methods to employ him for the best results. Not to mention the number of jerseys that would sell overnight knowing Griffin’s story.
You can read Griffin’s NFL Draft scouting report here.