Previewing the best defensive back fits for the Chiefs in 2023 NFL Draft
By Grant Tuttle
Round 3: Mekhi Blackmon, CB, USC
Smart, smart, smart. Mekhi Blackmon is a very intelligent player that can play in a number of different roles. Although he has a small frame, he plays big. He is aggressive at the catch point and is as sure of a tackler as cornerbacks can be. With all of that in mind, he seems to be overpowered by blockers easily and he has an injury history that is likely causing him to fall.
For the Chiefs, Blackmon would have to fill a more specific role as a boundary player. If he is inside, he could become a liability in the run game. So, he may have to be a rotational guy that only comes in to play on obvious passing downs. All in all, the ceiling and floor are both pretty high for a player like Blackmon.
Round 4: Rejzohn Wright, CB, Oregon State
A fourth-round option that has gotten a lot of attention is Oregon State star Rejzohn Wright. While it is clear that he is not the fastest or most explosive cornerback, he has great length and instincts. At times it looks like he knows where the quarterback is going with the football before the quarterback does. That is a great skill that you can’t teach.
With all of that in mind, there are a number of things that he will need to learn at the next level. Wright could be a great developmental piece for the Chiefs that could play in the Dime from day one. While he is not refined, he is certainly an intriguing option.