3 first-round prospects the Kansas City Chiefs must avoid in 2024 NFL Draft
By Jacob Milham
OL Graham Barton
A common offensive lineman mocked near the bottom of the first round is Graham Barton, the versatile offensive lineman from Duke. However, investing in Barton might not be the wisest choice for the Chiefs.
The scouting reports paint a mixed picture. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein praised Barton's "technique, toughness and athleticism" with Pro Bowl potential but the former Blue Devil lacks the arm length required to play left tackle in the NFL. Indeed, while Barton's football IQ is undeniable, his physical traits and combined numbers rank near the bottom among NFL tackle prospects.
Furthermore, the Chiefs need a lineman who can protect their most valuable asset at the most valuable position, left tackle. Barton played the position well for Duke, logging 492 snaps there in 2023. He plays a very polished game, but the jump from the ACC to the AFC is massive.
Barton is a prime candidate to move to guard or center, positions that Kansas City is set at for 2024. The Chiefs should absolutely add an offensive lineman in the later rounds, but using the 32nd overall pick on a tackle who won't stick is not wise.