Patrick Queen would be Chiefs best linebacker since Derrick Johnson

How does Patrick Queen fit the Chiefs defense

Patrick Queen projects as a starting WILL linebacker in a 4-3 scheme. He has the mental processing, reactive athleticism, and play speed to be an impact player against both the run and pass, which would be a pivotal contributor to all three downs at the next level. He could use some bulk, but his frame holds the room to grow. If he can increase mass and play strength, he can play anywhere in the second level of the defense.

That position happens to be the exact need for the Kansas City Chiefs again in 2020. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo moved several pieces around to find a band-aid against running backs out of the backfield. That includes moving Damien Wilson to that role instead of his SAM alignment. Tyrann Mathieu and Daniel Sorensen were also brought into the box to help stop any bleeding.

While Sorensen does bring some good things to the table as a third safety, Queen has the potential to be a better fit for that role in the Chiefs defense. Even with the undersized build, Queen would still be a better fit to play against the run.

Given Queen’s athleticism and ability to carry running backs and tight ends vertically or drop into deep zones, it makes all the sense in the world to have a linebacker on the field. It’s one less hat the Chiefs would have to ask Tyrann Mathieu to wear from time to time.

Mock drafts have Queen taken before the Chiefs pick at 32. At the same time, with a loaded class in 2020 at several positions, someone has to fall. There is a chance that he could fall within reach for Kansas City. Who said it would be at 32 where they were taking him anyway? If Veach wants Queen in Kansas City, it wouldn’t surprise if he’s willing to move up to get him.