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KC Chiefs 2021 Draft: Best interior o-line prospects to protect Patrick Mahomes

By Thomas Welte

PISCATAWAY, NJ - OCTOBER 20: Rashawn Slater #70 of the Northwestern Wildcats looks on during a timeout against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the third quarter on October 20, 2018 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Northwestern won 18-15. (Photo by Corey Perrine/Getty Images)
PISCATAWAY, NJ - OCTOBER 20: Rashawn Slater #70 of the Northwestern Wildcats looks on during a timeout against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the third quarter on October 20, 2018 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Northwestern won 18-15. (Photo by Corey Perrine/Getty Images) /
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2021 NFL Draft prospect Alex Leatherwood
TUSCALOOSA, AL – NOVEMBER 09: Alex Leatherwood #70 of the Alabama Crimson Tide looks to block Rashard Lawrence #90 of the LSU Tigers during the second half at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 9, 2019 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

Alex Leatherwood, T/G, Alabama

I hesitated to include Leatherwood on this list because I think he hears his name called as a tackle on draft day. The consensus seems to be that Leatherwood will be moved to guard in the pros, but don’t be surprised if he makes a living at tackle. Based on the volume of projections to guard for Leatherwood, I’ll mention him here. Regardless, the versatility is a plus for Leatherwood and definitely valued by Kansas City.

There is one word to sum up Leatherwood: Underrated. The standout Crimson Tide lineman has been consistent, technically sound, and efficient. I think Leatherwood moves better than most give him credit for and operates comfortably. He has impressive feet in pass sets and no issues with driving defenders on run plays.

There are concerns about Leatherwood’s overall ability to handle more talented pass rushers, especially those who are adept at turning the corner with flexibility and speed. Those concerns are why many feel Leatherwood projects to a guard at the pro level. The Crimson Tide have relied heavily on Leatherwood and utilized him as a guard and tackle over the past three years.

Alabama churns out so many offensive lineman that it seems the league gets bored with them at times, and Leatherwood is a prime example. Leatherwood has a high floor, and while he may not be an elite level athlete with superstar upside, chances that he carves out a role as a long-time starter are high.

Leatherwood should be a plug and play starter at guard in Kansas City, but may also be given a chance to compete for the right tackle spot if Mitchell Schwartz is no longer around. Leatherwood reminds me of former Buffalo Bill tackle Cordy Glenn.

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