NFL Scouting Combine: Defensive standouts for the Kansas City Chiefs
By Jalon Dodson
EDGE Rushers
Montez Sweat, Mississippi State
- 6-foot-6, 260 pounds
- 35 3/4″ arm length
- 40-yard Dash: 4.41
- Bench Press: 21 reps
- Vertical Jump: 36 inches
- Broad Jump: 125 inches
- 3 Cone Drill: 7 seconds
- 20 Yard Shuttle: 4.29 seconds
Sweat is one of those extremely athletic, physical, skilled players who could end up falling to the Chiefs’ range. In order for the Chiefs to draft him, they may have to trade up to around the 20th pick in the first round, but it would be worth it. Running a 4.41 40-yard dash as a 6-foot-6, 260-pound defensive end is virtually unheard of. That type of speed is faster than most wide receivers in the National Football League. His vertical jump, broad jump and bench press shows that he has the strength and agility to get off the edge and get to the quarterback before the latter even has time to think.
His 3 cone drill time is impressive and, after watching it live, it was evident that he had that innate ability to change directions. This trait would be ideal for getting past offensive linemen, using his hands and speed to get to the passer. In the Chiefs’ system, playing across from defensive end Chris Jones would provide a dynamic duo. It would give the Chiefs a pass rush tandem that would make even Neil Smith and the late, great Derrick Thomas proud.
Sweat had a score of 99 at the combine according to Next Gen Stats, which is the best possible score.
Chase Winovich, Michigan
- 6-foot-3, 256 pounds
- 32 3/4″ arm length
- 40-yard Dash: 4.59
- Bench Press: 18 reps
- Vertical Jump: 30.5 inches
- Broad Jump: 116 inches
- 3 Cone Drill: 6.94 seconds
- 20 Yard Shuttle: 4.11 seconds
Winovich is yet another interesting prospect. While he is a bit undersized, he makes up for it with his speed and athleticism. He could definitely beat an offensive tackle on the edge and get around him, using his speed and technique.
His 3 cone drill was very impressive to watch. His bench press was not electrifying by any means, but again, being undersized means massive strength is not at the forefront of his ability. Throughout the combine, he showed that he was a lean, mean, hitting machine with an emphasis on being competitive and wanting to prove to scouts that he deserves a nod.
He is a force in the run game and would again be a great addition to play with Jones, who lit the league up last year. Winovich will be rather limited with his size, which would hinder his ceiling. Nonetheless, he could fill in rather nicely and bolster a pass rush that was among one of the best in the NFL last season. Winovich had a combine score of 94.
Oshane Ximines, Old Dominion
- 6-foot-3, 253 pounds
- 33″ arm length
- 40-yard Dash: 4.78 seconds
- Vertical Jump: 34 inches
- Broad Jump: 118 inches
- 3 Cone Drill: 7.13 seconds
- 20 Yard Shuttle: 4.57 seconds
Ximines is one of those prospects who mixes speed with power. He can mesh well in virtually any scheme but has some trouble with defending the run. His size is rather decent, all considered, and his 3 cone drill and 40-yard dash showed that he has get-up speed, but lacks a true burst. His technique and rush moves are perhaps among his best qualities. He would fit in nicely with the Chiefs, especially with the likely departure of outside linebacker Justin Houston.