My Proposal to Fixing My Beloved Chiefs (Combine Ed.)

                           DT, Glenn Dorsey during the draft on April 26, 2008

Note: Draft is based off of cbssports.com prospect rankings

As the offseason unfolds, more players are being released, tendered, and signed. Everything is shaping up and free agency is set to begin Friday 12am. The NFL Combine just ended and, I watched all 30 hours of it. I came away impressed by some prospects and, unimpressed by others. I saw lots of players that fit the needs of the Kansas City Chiefs. Unfortunately, the Chiefs do not have infinite picks, so selecting players will be a strategic process. I am a believer that you build through the draft. The Chiefs need to come away with 3-4 starters in the 2010 draft and 1-2 starters via free agency.

This is my proposal to fixing my beloved Chiefs. I have taken the time to watch footage, study the Senior Bowl practices and game, and watch the combine. I feel that if the Chiefs were to follow this blueprint, not only would they improve in the win column but, they would challenge the San Diego Chargers for the division title. In this mock offseason, I have taken into account the economy and CBA. After the jump I will try and select players that I feel will remedy the issues that have plagued the Chiefs for the past three years. Included with each draft selection is a detailed description of the player selected. I’ve also taken the liberty to provide footage for those of you who are not familiar with my selections. Some players may not have footage, due to their position.

FREE AGENCY

In 2009 the Chiefs were the most active team in the offseason. They signed tons of players, traded Tony Gonzalez to the Atlanta Falcons, for a 2010 2nd round pick, and traded the 2009 2nd round pick to the New England Patriots for quarterback Matt Cassel and linebacker Mike Vrabel. While the Chiefs were busy last offseason, most of their acquisitions either failed to make the team, or produce during the season. I expect the Chiefs to be just as active this year, but find much better players. Do not expect the Chiefs to break the bank. They will most likely acquire one solid player, and a bevy of role players.

1. CB, Dunta Robinson - Dunta Robinson is a excellent corner in the NFL. After his rookie season, quarterbacks learned not to throw his way. He started his career with 6 interceptions. Robinson reminds me a little of Brandon Flowers. He is tough, a vocal leader, and has great ball skills. Robinson also doesn't shy away from tackling. He consistently in on running plays. Pairing Robinson with Flowers would give the Chiefs two solid cornerbacks, in a pass heavy AFC West. Having the ability to play effective man coverage in the NFL is key. It allows for defensive coordinator to send more blitzes, which equate to more sacks, something the Chiefs lack. Dunta Robinson will be the Chiefs only "high profile" signing this offseason. He will pay huge dividends to a pass defense that ranked in the bottom half of league.

2. RB, Mike Bell - Head Coach Todd Haley stated that the Chiefs must find help for Jamaal Charles. He weighs 200 pounds soaken wet, and the Chiefs must find a quality back to spell him. Mike Bell is a young back who has the speed and toughness to take advantage of the zone blocking scheme the Chiefs run. He is excellent in short yardage situations and has a knack for giving the blow, instead of receiving it. Acquiring Mike Bell wont cost the Chiefs much. I prefer to sign a veteran instead of drafting a rookie. The Chiefs have too many holes, to spend a pick on a backup running back. There are many advantages to adding Bell as oppose to a rookie. Bell already has experience running in a zone offense, from his days in Denver, and he is also a good pass blocker. Charles and Bell would be a perfect combination.

3. OG, Stephen Neal - Last offseason the Chiefs acquired veteran guard Mike Goff. That didn't pan out well and he has been cut from the team. GM Scott Pioli hits the market again and finds a guard who can play consistent football. Guard Stephen Neal is still a solid option for teams looking to fill holes on the offensive line. Neal is an ex wrestler so, he has great balance, and we all know how much Pioli loves ex wrestlers. Neal is a hard nosed blue-collar player. He is about as tough and as nasty as they come. He has experience in Weis’s system, and also has experience playing for quarterback Matt Cassel. The Chiefs staff is all about f it, and this is a good fit. 

4. DE. Javaris Green - Yes,  another Patriot. Green provides depth and knowledge of Crennel’s 34 system. He will be apart of the defensive line rotation, and help with the maturation of the other defensive lineman. The Chiefs have a lot of defensive ends, but there are only three that fit the 34 scheme (Dorsey, McGee, Jackson), and Green can round out the depth. Acquiring Green is yet another example of a player fitting. 

5. Kassim Osgood - Osgood is one of the best special teams players in the NFL. He has been elected to multiple pro bowls and can help take our coverage team to the next level. Osgood also is a big receiver. He is 6’5 220 lbs. With the Chargers, he didn't get much playing time. Believe it or not, he is a viable option in the passing game. When he gets the opportunity to play receiver, he averages 19.6 a catch. He can provide the Chiefs with a deep threat and a big body in the red zone.

NFL DRAFT

ROUND 1 - DB, Eric Berry, Tennessee Volunteers (Highlights)

(Age: 21   Height: 5'11   Weight: 211 lbs.   Forty Time: 4.47)

Eric Berry is a top 5 player on many experts draft boards and, rightfully so. He is a supreme talent who can play any position in the secondary. Safeties with the talent of Berry dont come around very often. He is the epitome of a game changer. Some analyst don't see the value in selecting a safety in the top 5, but the importance of having a quality safety is becoming of the essence. The NFL is evolving before our eyes. It is becoming a passing league. More and more, teams are loading up at receiver, and spreading the field, and causing mismatches for defenses. We don't have to look to far for evidence, other than to look at our own division. Both Phillip Rivers and Kyle Orton led pass happy teams in 2009. They combined for 1,027 passing attempts, 8,056 passing yards, and 49 touchdowns. Passing numbers like these, are the reason why teams require athleticism at the safety position.

At the combine, Berry's athletic prowess was on display. He ran an exceptional forty and, had some of the best transitions during the defensive back drills. After watching 08' and 09' tape on Berry, I have come to the conclusion that he is the most complete defensive back in the draft. He has the speed and hip flexibility to blanket any receiver, and the ball skills to intercept or deflect any ball. His instincts and football IQ are off the charts. Rarely is Berry fooled by play action or misdirection plays. He diagnoses plays immediately and, blows them up. in 2009, Berry had only 2 interceptions, as oppose to 7 in 2008 and 5 in 2007. Defensive Coordinator Monte Kiffin had Berry playing the rover position. He often lined up in the box, to provide run support. When he did stay back at strong safety, quarterbacks rarely threw his way, on purpose.

Berry is the type of player that fits the "right 53". He has a passion for football, is a good kid on and off the filed, and is very versatile. He can provide the Chiefs with a bonafide playmaker in the secondary. If you are uncertain about selecting a safety 5th overall, just look at the effect Troy Palamlou and Darren Sharper had on their respective teams. When Palamlou went down with injury, the Steelers fell apart on defense. At the age of 34, Darren Sharper intercepted 9 balls, and returned 4 of them for touchdowns. He was a main cog on the defense, and a big reason for their Super Bowl success. To give you even more of an idea of the type of skills Berry possesses, imagine a mixture of Ed Reed, Troy Palamlou, and Brian Dawkins. He has the ball skills and return skills of Reed, the pursuit of Palamlou, and the tenacious tackling of Brian Dawkins. I have no doubt in my mind that Berry is the right selection for the Chiefs. He will immediately help to turn around one of the poorest passing defenses in the league.

Career Stats: Tackles: 241   Ints: 14   FF: 2   Sacks: 3   TDs: 3

ROUND 2 - DE/OLB, Jerry Hughes, TCU Horned Frogs (Highlights)

(Age: 21   Height: 6'2   Weight: 255 lbs.   Forty Time: 4.69)

The Kansas City Chiefs have been lacking in the sacks department. Two years running, they have ranked in the bottom two. Currently on the roster, there is only one player capable of getting to the quarterback on a consistent basis. Tamba Hali did an excellent job in 2009. He recorded 8.5 sacks and 4 forced fumbles. Hali cannot do it alone though. Mike Vrabel and Andy Studebaker do not have the speed nor quickness to contribute to the pass rush. In the 34 defense, it is the responsibility of the outside linebackers to place pressure on the quarterback and, that was not done nearly enough in 09'. Jerry Hughes is the answer to the Chiefs problems.

Over the past few years, the word hybrid has become the most used word when speaking about defensive ends in the draft. Jerry Hughes is a prime example of a hybrid player. In college Hughes played solely with his hand on the ground. In the NFL, Hughes is projected to play outside linebacker in the 34 defense. Hughes posses a  NFL ready frame, along with NFL ready speed. At the 2010 NFL combine, he ran a 4.69 forty. That is more than enough speed to bend the corner and, pressure the quarterback. Hughes, like Hali, has a high motor. He gives a tremendous amount of effort on each play and, has one of the most explosive first steps in the nation. 

While everything is good on the pass rushing front, Hughes must improve his run defense and, pass coverage. He does have good lateral movement and pursuit but, he most become better at the point of attack. Just like Hali, Hughes will be making a difficult transition to standing up. It is a hard transition, but not an impossible one. Many fans voice concerns about having two former defensive ends playing outside linebacker. They often point to the likeliness of poor pass coverage. The Chiefs have an excellent linebackers coach in Gary Gibbs and, he will get Hughes ready. Contrary to popular belief, starting two defensive ends at outside linebacker is not Taboo. The Ravens, Steelers, and Cowboys have made a habit of it. If Vrabel is retained, I would look for Vrabel and Hughes to split time at the position until Hughes is fully ready.

Adding a pass rusher will help the Chiefs entire defense. I like to compare the pass rush and pass coverage to marriage. A husband and wife must work together to produce a successful marriage. The pass rush and secondary must work in conjunction. If pressure is applied on the quarterback, it allows the secondary to cover for far less time and, if the secondary covers well, it gives the linebackers time to get to the quarterback. It goes hand in hand. With the Chiefs missing the pass rushing element, it leaves the secondary out to dry. Hughes corrects this big problem.

Career Stats: Tackles: 142   Ints: 3   FF: 2   Sacks: 28 

ROUND 2 - WR/KR/PR, Mardy Gilyard, Cincinnati Bearcats (Highlights)

(Age: 21   Height: 6'0   Weight: 187 lbs.   Forty Time: 4.56)

Long gone are the days of Eddie Kennsion and Dante Hall. The Chiefs haven't had a sure handed receiver and, return man since both departed years ago. It has been well documented that the Chiefs had a bad case of the dropsies in 2009. From my recollection, the number of drops accumulated to 54. The Chiefs also had major issues in the return game. Jamaal Charles did well until that duty was lifted off of his plate, due to his emergence in the offense. Quentin Lawrence, Lance Long, and Bobby Wade were lack luster to say the least. Too many balls were fair caught; they often failed to improve field position, and fumbled at inopportune times. The Chiefs fielded a very good special teams unit in 09' but the return game held the unit back from being amongst the best in the league. Mardy Gilyard is a smooth athlete, who can contribute in the return game, as well as the offense.

Mardy Gilyard is a multi dimensional player, who can supply production in many different facets. His versatility is something that gives him a leg up on most receivers in the draft. In 2009, Gilyard was one of the more productive receivers in the NCAA. With 11 receiving touchdowns, and 3 return touchdowns, selecting him in the second round is of great value. Gilyard is not an extremely fast receiver, however, he is very elusive, quick, and smooth. At the combine he didn't run the forty well but, do not let that detour you. Cue up the game tape and, you will see Gilyard running away from defenders. He has shifty hips and superb vision and, can take a short pass to the house in an instance. Gilyard also shows the ability to run crisp routes and, stick his foot in the ground. He finds holes in the defense and, thats what makes him an excellent candidate to play slot receiver. Some of you may wonder who does he compare to in the NFL. Well, his return skills and vision compares to Desean Jackson and, his receiving ability compares to Steve Breaston. Todd Haley has a ton of experience with receivers, and he will have Gilyard producing between Dwayne Bowe and Chris Chambers.

Another benefit to selecting Gilyard is that he is a high character individual. Some of you may be aware of his feel good story. In 2006, Gilyard was relieved of his football scholarship due to poor grades. Without funding from the University of Cincinnati, Gilyard lost his apartment and was forced to live in his car. Gilyard hit rock bottom and couldn't get to shore until be payed the10,000 dollars owed to the school. Gilyard took accountability for his life and turned things around. Not only did Gilyard work multiple jobs in order to pay his debt but, he found time to mentor the inner city youth. Eventually Gilyard paid his debt, completed his failed courses and was granted his football scholarship. He displayed mental toughness when most people would of sulked and wilted. Getting through his trials and tribulations shows his passion for life success and football. He is the type of player you want on your team because, he has a unique appreciation of the game.

Career Stats: Receptions: 203   Yards: 3003   Touchdowns: 29

ROUND 3 - DT/NG, Torrell Troup, Central Florida Knights (Highlights)

(Age: 22   Height: 6'3   Weight: 314 lbs.   225 reps: 34)

Nose guard is absolutely the number one need for the Kansas City Chiefs. During the 2009 campaign, Ron Edwards manned the position, and did so poorly. He often failed to occupy more than one lineman, or push the pocket. At times I witnessed Edwards attempting swim and spin moves. Nose guards should not be attempting finesse moves, they should be using their brute strength to collapse the pocket, giving the outside linebackers the opportunity to sack the quarterback; hence the poor sack numbers. Nose guard is the key to the 34 defense. A solid nose guard affects the entire defense. Without one, the team will have a difficult time at stopping the run, and creating a pass rush. Unfortunately for the Chiefs, there aren't many nose guards in free agency. Luckily though, there are a ton of NCAA prospects that project to nose guard. Most fans are in love with Terrence Cody but, I am in favor of Torrell Troup

Torrell Troup will be a steal in the draft. He is a hard worker, who consistently gives good effort. His motor sets him apart from most nose guards and, he is an every down player. Troup's ability to stand his ground against double teams is what amazes me. To his advantage, he uses his girth and strength to anchor himself. He plays with a low center of gravity and uses his thick upper body to gain leverage. He stacks and sheds blockers by using his hands violently. Troup got a chance to play for Romeo Crennel at the East West Shrine game. Reports indicate that he had an outstanding week of practice and that Chiefs Defensive Coordinator fell in love with him. After watching the game, I could see why. He has the nose tackle body and mentality.

Troup has an advantage over Terrence Cody. Yes Cody has an even bigger frame and, more experience playing in the 34 defense but, Troup has the dedication and mental toughness that the Chiefs look for in their players. It has been publicized that Cody has a terrible work ethic, and isn't devoted to staying in game shape. From the time between the BCS Championship game and Senior Bowl, Cody gained an extra 20 pounds. Troup started his college career weighing 345 pounds. Coming in to his senior season, he trimmed down to 315 pounds. He put his depth of character and perseverance on display to his teammates and coaching staff. Doing so made him a leader on the field and in the locker room. Cody is also known as a 2-down player. Drafting Cody handcuffs a team into predictability. Similar to last year, Edwards was a 2-down player, forcing the Chiefs to run a 2-4 Nickel on passing downs. In the past, Crennel kept his nose guard on the field during 3rd downs. Troup provides Crennel with defensive options.

Career Stats: Tackles: 83   Sacks: 4   FF: 0

ROUND 4 - OC, J.D. Walton, Baylor Bears 

(Age: 22   Height: 6'3   Weight: 314 lbs.   225 reps: N/A)

Despite what many analysts say, the middle of the Chiefs offensive line is in need of upgrading. Rudy Niswagner is an average NFL center, and is probably suited best at guard. Niswagner is a tad bit too lanky to play center. His height is a disadvantage because, defensive tackles, and nose guards naturally have leverage on him. Niswanger often gets pushed backwards, giving Cassel no pocket to step up in too. Even if tackles Brandon Albert and Ryan O'Callahan do their jobs, it means nothing without a quality center in the middle of the line.

J.D. Walton is projected to go in the 3rd/4th round. If available at the top of the 4th, it is a great value. Walton can come in and solidify the center position for years. Walton is a blue-collar worker, something GM Scott Pioli looks for in his offensive lineman. He uses his hands and quick feet well. Against bigger, stronger defenders, he anchors well and shows good leverage. During running plays, Walton double teams with the best of them; often agitating defenders, even when on the ground. During passing plays, Walton mirrors defenders well. He also has an excellent punch and keeps balance while doing so. Walton has the intangibles. He's a mauler, a leader, a tough and intelligent player, everything needed to be a successful center in the NFL.

Career Stats: N/A

ROUND 5 - OT/OG, Marshall Newhouse, TCU Horned Frogs

(Age: 23   Height: 6'4   Weight: 319 lbs.   225 reps: 34)

Marshall Newhouse reminds me of two current Chiefs. First, Brandon Albert - Newhouse plays tackle in college but he is projected to play guard in the NFL. Brandon Albert had a similar projection but in reverse (Guard to Tackle). Also where Newhouse compares to Albert is in his athletic ability. At the combine, Newhouse ran the third fastest forty (5.00) amongst the offensive lineman. Newhouse is fantastic at pulling, similar to Albert. Second - Newhouse also reminds me of Wade Smith. Smith was the Chiefs resident all purpose lineman. Throughout the season, Smith played every position on the line. That versatility is what made him valuable to the Chiefs. Newhouse possesses the same value. He can play anywhere on the line, and be effective. The Chiefs covet versatile players and the Chiefs already have their eye on Newhouse.

Career Stats: N/A

ROUND 5 - DT/NG, Linval Joesph, East Carolina Pirates (Highlights)

(Age: 21   Height: 6'4   Weight: 328 lbs.   225 reps: 39)

As I stated above, the Chiefs are in dire need of a nose guard. Similar to how GM Scott Pioli drafted two 34 defensive ends in the 09' draft, Pioli drafts two nose guards to secure the nose guard position. Defensive linemen aren't the most in shape individuals. Most defensive coordinators rotate their defensive lineman, to keep them fresh. A rotation of Troup, Joseph, and Edwards would be and improvement over the 09' rotation of Edwards and Lockey. Head Coach Todd Haley is a big advocate for competition. Adding another nose guard to the mix pushes both Troup and Edwards to become better players.

Career Stats: Tackles: 136   Sacks: 6   FF: 1

ROUND 5 - ILB, Jamar Chaney, Mississippi State Bulldogs (Highlights)

(Age: 23   Height: 6'1   Weight: 242 lbs.   Forty: 4.54)

Do not let the production of Demorrio Williams fool you. He is an undersized linebacker who has zero playmaking ability. Corey Mays is no better. Both should be relegated to special teams work. Coming into this year I foresee Derrick Johnson and Jovan Belcher being the starters. I like the maturation of both players during the course of the 09' season. Jamar Chaney is an interesting prospect. He is a little on the short side but, he has the muscle mass to play inside linebacker. He also has tremendous speed, clocking a 4.54 forty at the combine. Chaney will add depth to the linebacker position, and could eventually be a starter. He will also contribute to special teams, where his speed will be of value.

Career Stats: Tackles: 285   Ints: 2   FF: 3   Sacks: 2 

Starting Lineups

Defense 

CB, Dunta Robinson | FS, Jarrad Page | SS, Eric Berry | CB, Brandon Flowers

OLB, Tamba Hali | ILB, Derrick Johnson | ILB, Jovan Belcher | OLB, Jerry Hughes

DE, Glenn Dorsey | NT, Torrell Troup | DE, Tyson Jackson

Offense 

LOT, Brandon Albert | LG, Brian Waters | C, J.D. Walton | RG, Stephen Neal | ROT, Ryan O’Callahan

WR, Dwayne Bowe | WR, Chris Chambers | WR, Mardy Gilyard | TE, Brad Cottam

QB, Matt Cassel | RB, Jamaal Charles | FB, Mike Cox

Special Teams

P, Dustin Colquitt | K, Ryan Succop | PR, Mardy Gilyard | KR, Mardy Gilyard

Conclusion

After watching the East West shrine game, Senior bowl, and combine, I have complied a mock offseason that I feel would make the Chiefs competitive in the AFC West. I have added two starters via free agency, and four starters via the draft. I think I’ve addressed most of the teams needs, but not everything can be fixed in one offseason. I sprinkled in youth, along with veterans. More speed and quickness have been added, and more leadership as well. I feel that this team could drastically improve, and get in the range of .500 (8-8). I want the Chiefs to win the division, and go to the playoffs, but again, I’m trying to keep my expectations of players and the season realistic...