Five Combine performances that should change Chiefs draft board

5. Deuce Vaughn, Running Back, Kansas State

Admittedly, this is a bit of a homer pick, but former Kansas State Wildcat running back Deuce Vaughn would be so much fun in an Andy Reid offense, and Kansas City certainly has an opening (potentially two) in the running back room.

Vaughn is the shortest prospect in NFL Combine history since they started keeping track of measurements (2003). At just 5’5″, his short stature is compounded by his very small build; at just 179 pounds NFL teams will rightly be weary of his ability to hold up over an NFL season. But, that short-sightedness shouldn’t stop Kansas City from taking a swing on the home run hitter from the Little Apple.

Vaughn possesses elite field vision and shiftiness. In addition, despite his small build, he has some of the most powerful legs of any running back in the nation, which gives him a deceptive tackle- breaking ability that dovetails excellently with his elusiveness. Vaughn is going to get lost behind NFL offensive lines – much like he did at Kansas State – but that is more of an advantage than a disadvantage when utilized correctly.

No one is going to draft Deuce Vaughn expecting him to be an every-down back. He’s not going to be a workhorse for anyone (likely), and he also probably will not offer a whole lot in the pass-protection arena given his size disadvantage versus NFL players (though he was surprisingly effective in college against Big XII competition). However, a gadget-type player in the mold of a young Mecole Hardman, or former Chiefs’ weapon De’Anthony Thomas, would be an excellent role for the former Wildcat. And, we trust that Andy Reid and new (old) offensive coordinator Matt Nagy could find a way to use him in the offense.

It’s notable that Vaughn also has experience as a kick returner, and may allow the Chiefs to transition starting running back Isaiah Pacheco out of that role, which would be optimal.