These two prospects could be an option for the Chiefs in the mid rounds if they don’t land an edge player earlier in the draft.
Jaylon Ferguson – Louisiana Tech
You may have seen some projections early on that had Jaylon Ferguson going MUCH earlier than the middle rounds, but I just don’t see that being very likely. Yes, Ferguson had great pass rushing numbers putting up 16 sacks, 15 quarterback hits, and 33 hurries but it was against inferior competition and his game tape simply doesn’t show enough to think he’ll be an elite pass rusher in the NFL (at least not early on).
Ferguson shows a disturbing lack of flexibility which was backed up by absolutely abysmal times in his three cone drill and short shuttle. Ferguson won’t just be able to get by winging it with his combination of speed and strength off the edge at the next level. He needs to work on more reliable pass rush technique. That said, as long as they don’t reach for him early, I would be intrigued by Ferguson’s potential as a mid-round pick.
Joe Jackson – Miami
Joe Jackson is similar to many of the Day 2 prospects in that he had success last season as an edge rusher (12 sacks, 11 quarterback hits, 31 hurries) and has the size (6-4, 275 pounds) to hold up against the run. Like Anthony Nelson, Jackson’s tape doesn’t show as much strength to move inside like guys like Allen/Omenihu/Collier. His technique is raw, but there is some real upside here.
If Jackson was still on the board in the fifth round I would jump all over him if I were the Chiefs. I could even understand going as high as the third round for him if they really think their coaches can develop him.
Here are some college highlights of Jackson.
Thank you, Joe Jackson!
— GO ‘CANES! (@83_87_89_91_01) January 3, 2019
Forever a Miami Hurricane. pic.twitter.com/fzU3k8X9i3
Finally, let’s look at a couple of late round options.