KC Chiefs: Who are the draft’s best interior defensive line fits?

Nov 13, 2021; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Georgia Bulldogs defensive lineman Jordan Davis (99) blocks during the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2021; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Georgia Bulldogs defensive lineman Jordan Davis (99) blocks during the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports
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Oct 9, 2021; Dallas, Texas, USA; Oklahoma Sooners defensive lineman Perrion Winfrey (8) pressures Texas Longhorns quarterback Casey Thompson (11) during the game at the Cotton Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 9, 2021; Dallas, Texas, USA; Oklahoma Sooners defensive lineman Perrion Winfrey (8) pressures Texas Longhorns quarterback Casey Thompson (11) during the game at the Cotton Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Oklahoma’s Perrion Winfrey

It is not a far drive from Arrowhead Stadium to Norman, Okla. Could Oklahoma’s Perrion Winfrey make that trip?

Winfrey, a top JUCO prospect before his time in Oklahoma, has all the measurements for the NFL. He stands 6’4″ and weighs in at 303 lbs., a healthy size for a disruptive defensive tackle. His long arms will transition well to the next level as well, with an 83.75″ wingspan.

Winfrey made an immediate impact in the Big 12, earning Big-12 second-team honors in 2020 and 2021. He finished with 42 tackles, 17 for a loss, and six sacks over his two-year career. While those numbers are not impressive, they are very good considering Oklahoma used him primarily as a nose tackle. Winfrey made some noise at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, earning Most Valuable Player after a two-sack, three tackle for loss performance.

Winfrey has a very-high motor approach to the game, with violent hands against the run and pass. He did not take many plays off, totaling 56 quarterback pressures in his two collegiate seasons. What is more impressive is that nose tackle is not his natural position. Winfrey is versatile but should shade over guards in the NFL.

Winfrey relies heavily on the bull rush and needs work on using his hands more effectively. His strength overpowered college football’s top offensive lineman for years. Winfrey is far from a perfect prospect, as he needs to improve his lower body flexibility and snap reaction. But, he has all the physical tools to succeed in the NFL. Kansas City’s defensive coaches, especially Cullen, can help Winfrey grow.

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