Kansas City Chiefs all-time best NFL Draft picks by round

Round 7: Linebacker Bobby Bell

Saving one of the best for last. Linebacker Bobby Bell was one of the first players who did not have a defensive position. He simply did what he did best as a pass rusher.

The Chiefs selected the Minnesota product in the seventh round of the 1963 AFL draft. He had a long career, playing for the Chiefs first in the American Football League from 1963 through 1969 and then in the NFL from 1970 through 1974. Bell’s impact on the Chiefs’ defense was profound. He possessed exceptional speed and agility, allowing him to chase down ball carriers and disrupt plays. His ability to defend both the run and the pass made him a versatile asset for the team. Bell’s playmaking ability and instincts often resulted in game-changing moments, as he consistently delivered key tackles, forced fumbles, and interceptions. His contributions were vital in helping the Chiefs reach Super Bowl I and Super Bowl IV, with the latter resulting in a championship victory.

In Super Bowl IV, Bell’s performance was particularly outstanding, as he made crucial plays to help secure the Chiefs’ historic win. At 6′ 4″ and 230 pounds, Bell was known for his unique athleticism, and he was said to have run a 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds. Overall, Bell may have been the most physically gifted and dominant outside linebacker in NFL history. Bell had six consecutive selections to the All-Pro first team, spanning from the AFL to the NFL. Beyond his on-field success, Bell was admired for his leadership and character. He was a respected figure both within the team and in the wider football community. Bell’s professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to the game set a standard for excellence. In recognition of his outstanding career, Bobby Bell was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983.

His impact on the game of football, his contributions to the Kansas City Chiefs, and his lasting legacy as one of the greatest linebackers of his era cement his place as an iconic figure in NFL history.

Honorable Mentions: OG Dave Szott, CB Kevin Ross, CB Eric Warfield