As the Combine takes over Indy, the Kansas City Chiefs are on a specific hunt. While the world watches the 40-yard dash, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is looking for heavy-handed power and schematic versatility.
In Spagnuolo's system, an edge rusher isn't just a sack artist; he is a multi-tooled chess piece required to set a violent edge and slide inside in sub-packages. And taking a peek at a loaded edge group this spring, one name pops above the rest: Michigan EDGE Derrick Moore.
If you were to build a defensive end to fit the Chiefs' physical identity, he would look a lot like Derrick Moore. At 6-foot-3, 260 lbs., Moore is a powerful, high-IQ rusher who served as the tone-setter for one of college football’s most disciplined defenses.
Derrick Moore's fit with the Chiefs
Moore is the quintessential Spagnuolo 5-tech defensive end. On early downs, he can flash heavy hands, traits that allowed him to dominate the Senior Bowl a few weeks ago. Unlike pure speed rushers, Moore thrives at converting speed to power, often walking 300-pound tackles back into the quarterback’s lap. His ability to set a hard edge is non-negotiable for Spagnuolo. Additionally, his experience in Michigan’s pro-style, NFL-lite scheme means he can handle the complex simulated pressures and stunts that define the Chiefs' defense.
The Spags Factor for Derrick Moore
Spagnuolo loves defensive ends with positional flexibility, and Moore has the frame and anchor to kick inside to 3-technique on passing downs, similar to how the Chiefs have utilized players like Charles Omenihu. Coming off a 10-sack senior season at Michigan, Moore has proven he can produce against elite competition while maintaining the discipline to stay home.
Why the Combine matters for Moore
For Moore, the Combine is about his explosiveness numbers. While his strength is unquestioned, scouts want to see his 10-yard split in the 40. A strong showing in the agility drills would also silence critics who worry about his stiffness, potentially vaulting him into the late first-round conversation as the successor to the Chiefs' aging veteran depth.