2018 NFL Draft: Why the Kansas City Chiefs were big winners on Friday
ROUND 3 (100)
DORIAN O’DANIEL, LB, Clemson
As we all wanted, the Chiefs make yet another astute addition to a defense that desperately needed help. O’Daniel enjoyed an excellent senior campaign for the Tigers and was a flexible defensive piece for Brent Venables. He can do so many things for you, including crucially lining up as a slot corner or as most likely at this stage, a safety alongside Eric Berry.
Has been extremely consistent in run defense this past season, racking up 88 stops, 5 sacks and 11 tackles for a loss. A moving chess piece who will be an important factor when Bob Sutton utilizes his sub package looks, to cover the pass, defend the run and get to the quarterback. I am a big fan of this pick.
Scouting Report:
Built with a frame more akin to that of a safety, O’Daniel plays much bigger than his listed size and thrives in his play against the pass. Tough against tight ends and running backs in the slot and the seam, the senior, who impressed in spring practice ahead of his final campaign in Death Valley, shows off his quick hips and flexible body to stay tight throughout receiver routes with the ball skills to be able to make plays on the football.
O’Daniel lined up on the weak side of the Tigers’ linebacking trio and it is his awareness, discipline and reading of the game that really stands out when watching him. He displays plus vision and can see through the trash, allowing him to anticipate the play and be on the spot at the right time to make a play on the ball.
When he is in said position, he reliably tackles very well with perfect wrap technique to bring down the ball carrier. Reads and reacts impressively. Not an explosive athlete, but he doesn’t have to be with his eyes and football intelligence getting him into the position. More of a smooth mover than burst to the football. Highly productive senior campaign for defensive coordinator Brent Venables.
A very technically sound football player in all facets of the game, who could also line up as a strong safety or hybrid linebacker at the next level as he is too light for coaches to keep him at outside linebacker on Sundays, but too good a talent to prevent lining up closer to the line of scrimmage.
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