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Kansas City Chiefs draft grade: High ceiling, high floor prospects on Day 2

By Grant Tuttle

ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 05: Brett Veach, General Manager of the Kansas City Chiefs shakes hands with a fan before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT
ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 05: Brett Veach, General Manager of the Kansas City Chiefs shakes hands with a fan before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT /
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NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – APRIL 25: A general view of signage during the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft on April 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – APRIL 25: A general view of signage during the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft on April 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Khalen Saunders, DL, Western Illinois – 84th overall, 3rd round

Initial takeaway:

This may be my my favorite pick of the draft. As far as upside goes, the sky is the limit for Saunders. While the pick may not be an overall great grade from the majority of Chiefs fans, one must consider how Steve Spagnuolo has been successful. With a solid rotation along the defensive line, opposing offenses will struggle with the versatility and freshness along the line.

Positives from the pick:

Saunders is strong and can anchor very well. Perhaps the most impressive part of his game is how quick his feet are. His speed as a 320+ pound man is outstanding. With a unique pairing of size and speed, Saunders could be a steal in round three. With a charming and engaging attitude, he also brings light to a locker room that has had stuggles in the past 12 months.

Negatives from the pick:

Saunders was dominant, but played at Western Illinois. Being a small-school guy is not a bad thing, but being dominant against better competition would be very good for him. His length is not great and this can be exploited by longer offensive linemen. His burst is solid, but he can get lost after his initial move does not work.

Grade: B

I love Saunders’ upside. In fact, I would bet that he sees considerable playing time as a rotational player by week 3. The Chiefs front seven got even better with the addition of Saunders. While he has a lot to prove, he has the tools to get it done.

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