2023 NFL Draft: Defensive tackles who would fit the Chiefs
By Grant Tuttle
The Chiefs may not be able to take Jalen Carter, but the defensive tackle group in this draft is worth looking at. We discuss the options in this year’s class.
Draft season is objectively less exciting when you pick at the end of every round. With that in mind, many of the readers (like the writer of this article) can never get enough of the draft during the offseason. With a growing discussion about a dynasty, the Chiefs find themselves in a position where hitting on draft picks is crucial to their sustainability. In this year’s class, there are a number of positions with depth, but there is one position that the Chiefs should keep their eye on in the heart of the draft: defensive tackle.
This year’s group of defensive tackles is not elite or deep by any means, but it does have several players that would make for a great early to mid-round pick. Today, we are going to discuss some of the more intriguing fits for the young Kansas City Chiefs defense.
In this article, we will discuss some potential fits and areas of intrigue for some of the options in this crop of defensive tackles.
Bryan Bresee, Clemson
Projected Round: 1-2
Defensive Fit: High
Analysis: It is evident on tape that Bresee is both explosive and enormous. With a rare combination of quickness and power, it would not be surprising is Bresee was gone long before the Chiefs picked at 31. However, he makes for an intriguing trade up candidate, or a “if he falls, he is a steal” kind of guy.
At 6’5, 300 pounds, Bresee would be an incredible addition to a line that features Chris Jones and Charles Omenihu. While Chris Jones is a dominant pass rusher, Bresee has the potential to be one of the best run stuffers in the league one day. Additionally, he has a high ceiling in terms of pass rushing as well.
Bresee was a bright spot for Clemson team that was dominant throughout the 2022 season in the ACC. With the ability to flow to the ball quickly, run stunts, and move laterally, Bresee was a problem for offenses. While his stats weren’t flashy due to injury and time off of the field, the tape shows his true capability. The only reason that he may fall far enough for Kansas City to have a chance is that he has been injured throughout his college career and he has had a bit of inconsistency.
For Kansas City, if the medicals check out, they would be very wise to consider drafting Bresee if that is a possibility.