NFL Scouting Combine: Defensive standouts for the Kansas City Chiefs

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PASADENA, CA – JANUARY 01: Ben Burr-Kirven #25 of the Washington Huskies attempts to tackle Dwayne Haskins #7 of the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second half in the Rose Bowl Game presented by Northwestern Mutual at the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2019 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

Linebackers

Ben Burr-Kirven, Washington

6-foot-0, 230 pounds
31 7/8″ arm length
40-yard Dash: 4.56 seconds
Bench Press: 21 reps
Vertical Jump: 34.5 inches
Broad Jump: 121 inches
3 Cone Drill: 6.85 seconds
20 Yard Shuttle: 4.09 seconds
60 Yard Shuttle: 11.43 seconds

Burr-Kirven lit up the combine on Sunday. His 4.56 time in the 40-yard dash was decently fast, given his size. Seen as more of a safety-sized linebacker, there were questions as to whether or not he would weigh in at the sub-220 pound range. He beefed up to 230 pounds, which is around the ideal weight for a middle linebacker. While he is not extremely tall, his athleticism, as shown by his vertical jump, broad jump and 3 cone drill, makes up for any physical limitations.

His combine testing definitely improved his draft stock, even if by just a bit. His coverage skills are among his best qualities. His football IQ and ability to sniff out the run would be huge in the Chiefs’ scheme as they work toward reversing their fortunes in recent years in that very category.

Devin Bush, Michigan

5-foot-11, 234 pounds
32″ arm length
40-yard Dash: 4.43 seconds
Bench Press: 21 reps
Vertical Jump: 40.5 inches
Broad Jump: 124 inches
3 Cone Drill: 6.93 seconds
20 Yard Shuttle: 4.23 seconds

Bush posted perhaps one of the best combine performances among linebackers. Keeping up with potential top-10 pick Devin White, he proved that his athleticism and physicality should not be overlooked. Despite his height (5’11”), he showed that he has what it takes to become a starter. Inside linebacker will not be a pressing need with Anthony Hitchens and Reggie Ragland in the mix. However, with his coverage ability and ideal pass rush skills, Bush would be an upgrade over anyone.

His 4.43 40-yard dash showed that he has great speed, which would translate nicely to being able to cover in space. 40.5-inch vertical jump and a 124-inch broad jump, for his size, is tremendous. If prospects were drafted solely on their combine performance, Bush would be one of the first players drafted. That is not the case, however, and with the possibility of him being a first-round pick, the Chiefs could go after him if they feel it is enough of a pressing need.

Joe Giles-Harris, Duke

6-foot-2, 234 pounds
31 1/4″ arm length
40-yard Dash: 4.75 seconds
Bench Press: 17 reps
Vertical Jump: 29.5 inches
Broad Jump: 111 inches

Giles-Harris did not have a lights-out combine performance. He has the chance of starting as a middle linebacker, depending on who he is drafted by. His combine testing, however, was rather decent, all considered. If he wants a chance in the NFL, he will need to be more consistent in his game in all facets. He does have impressive physicality and strength, though. Could prove to be very lethal in space.

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