KC Chiefs find ideal fits in four-round mock draft

4th round – Terrel Bernard, LB, Baylor

As the Chiefs get into the fourth round here, they begin to move toward role players and developmental guys—both of whom should be able to provide special teams value. That last part is vital to this pick. While Bernard certainly has positional value for the Chiefs as a young linebacker to add to an already youthful mix, Bernard’s skill set and demeanor are especially valuable as a core special teams performer.

That said, Bernard would also be a welcome addition to the likes of Nick Bolton and Willie Gay Jr., especially in the wake of Anthony Hitchens’ departure. Bernard was the defensive captain on a great Baylor unit that also featured fellow draftees like J.T. Woods and Jalen Pitre and had 103 tackles to go with 7 sacks this season for the Bears.

Bernard would be a solid addition in coverage in a linebacking corps that has struggled with that for some time, especially given Gay’s injury issues. But it should be noted that Bernard himself has those same health concerns and his light frame (only 220 pounds) is not going to help him there at the next level. He profiles a bit more as a safety than linebacker, although the Chiefs could certainly hope to add bulk with an NFL conditioning program.

Watch Bernard earn playing time on the weakside and become a coaching favorite on special teams if taken by the Chiefs. It’s certainly an excellent fourth-round grab.