The Chiefs director of college scouting Chuck Cook spent time looking at 5 prospects in person this season. Below are the players he went to see, player ranking (via NFL Draft Countdown) and Cook's thoughts. Big thanks to Bob Gretz for gathering this information.
Michael Oher (Ole Miss)
Cook says...
"He's got the best feet I've seen in years for an offensive lineman. He's very physically gifted and there really isn't anything he can't do at left tackle. I can't imagine anything other than major injury that would keep him from coming into the league and playing well at left tackle for the next 10 or 12 years."
Just today Herm said he feels set at left tackle. Hmm...
Malcolm Jenkins (Ohio State)
Cook says...
"He's a very physical player. But that's just part of the whole package with him. He's what you are looking for at the corner."
Just today Herm said he feels set at cornerback. Hmm...
Rey Maualuga (USC)
Cook says...
"With his aggressiveness and temperament he could bring to a defense the same thing that Shawne Merriman brought to San Diego when he went down there. He's very good inside, plus he can run. He can cover the field inside to out."
Bill Kuharich also saw Maualuga in person.
Brian Cushing (USC)
Cook says...
"He's very aggressive and loves to be in the middle of the action. He can play outside and I think he has the skills to rush the passer."
Another USC guy. Killing two birds with one stone perhaps?
Mike Mickens (Cincinnati)
Cook says...
"He has the corner temperament that you are looking for. He's always ready for the next challenge. He's a good athlete and he's not afraid to get physical. I think he'll play a long time in the NFL.
Last week Gretz brought to us the 5 players VP of player personnel Bill Kuharich scouted in person this season.
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T Eugene Monroe (Virginia)
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OLB Aaron Curry (Wake Forest)
- MLB Rey Maualuga (USC)
- DT B.J. Raja (Boston College)
- TE Brandon Pettigrew (Oklahoma State)
Remember, this isn't a final list by any means. It doesn't include underclassmen because they haven't officially declared. This year, moreso than others with the looming possibility of changes being made to the collective bargaining agreement (which could result in changes like a rookie cap or no progress between the two sides and a cap-less season in 2010), there will likely be a large number of underclassmen declaring. The Chiefs would be wise to be up on as many prospects as possible because anything can happen on draft day.