2023 NFL Draft: Isaiah Foskey would be underrated second-round pick for Chiefs
By Grant Tuttle
Isaiah Foskey’s shortcomings and weaknesses:
1. Run Defense
Foskey is not a great run defender as it stands right now. On tape, he often gets caught up in an initial block and does not get his outside shoulder free. While he is not a liability in the run game, there is a lot of room for growth and improvement in his technique. The coaching staff in Kansas City could certainly help him improve his game over time.
2. Inconsistency
While being the all-time sack leader at a storied football school like Notre Dame makes it seem like Foskey was racking up sacks and pressures every game, this is not the case. Foskey was noticeably lacking in several matchups last season, often failing to get to the quarterback against top-tier tackles. This may be the biggest knock against him and the reason he may not get selected until the mid-to-late second round.
3. Lack of flexibility
Although Foskey is very powerful in his point of attack, he does seem to lack bend around the edge and can appear stiff/rigid. This is something that can be developed and worked on, but it is certainly a reason for concern for any defensive lineman entering the NFL.
Bottom Line
Isaiah Foskey is not on anyone’s radar as a first-round pick. He might not even get selected in the first two rounds. With that in mind, no matter who selects Foskey is getting a rotational player with a high floor and moderately high ceiling. While he might not become a full-time starter, the juice that he could bring on obvious passing downs might be just what a team needs to make their defense transition from good to great.
The Chiefs are looking to build their young defense for the future. Foskey could be a player that surprises some with the talent that he will bring to the next level. Foskey seems like the kind of player that Brett Veach thought he was getting with Breeland Speaks. With his pass-rushing skills, he should certainly be on Kansas City’s radar on day two of the NFL Draft.