Don't Forget The Chiefs May Have Options At Nose Tackle

by Joel Thorman on Apr 25, 2011 12:00 PM CDT in 2011 NFL Draft

One of the things the NFL lockout has done is place free agency after the 2011 NFL draft (assuming we actually have a free agency which is not necessarily a safe assumption). This has changed strategies for some teams and caused teams to operate a little differently.

Normally, the Chiefs would have signed (or tried to sign) the free agents they wanted to keep, filling up a few holes, and focusing their entire attention on the NFL draft.

That's obviously not the case this year. The Chiefs haven't been able to re-sign anyone lending to the uncertainty in the NFL this year.

When it comes to the draft and where the Chiefs might go with their first pick, I think it's important to remember who's already in-house. Specifically, I'm talking about nose tackle. That's a popular mock draft pick for the Chiefs because folks say there's a need there.

That may be true....but what if it's not?

Ron Edwards is scheduled to be a free agent but it's very possible the Chiefs plan on re-signing him. Let's face it: 31-year old defensive tackles aren't necessarily in demand. The Chiefs could probably keep Edwards if they wanted to.

There's also Anthony Toribio. The Chiefs claimed him from the Green Bay Packers prior to the 2010 season so there's something there that they liked. It's possible the Chiefs think he's ready for an increased role which would minimize the need at nose tackle.

While nose tackle may look like a need, don't forget that there are guys already on the Chiefs roster who could fill some of these holes. The problem, of course, is trying to identify which players the Chiefs will try to keep if/when free agency hits and which players they'll let go.

I just wanted to remind people that, at nose tackle, it's not that far-fetched to see the Chiefs lining up with Edwards and Toribio next season.

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Comments

yeah, I've been saying this all along

I fully expect them to re-sign Edwards and Shaun Smith…

Toribio, I am not sold on yet.

they still need to draft a NT… but the need isn’t as dire as people make it out to be.

Prediction: KC will not draft a LB before the 3rd round

by stagdsp on Apr 25, 2011 12:05 PM CDT reply actions

I think its very dire

The rush defense was pretty bad in the 2nd half when Edwards got worn down and if we are going into year 3 of the 34 conversion with Anthony Toribio as the NToTF, I’ll be pretty upset.

There has to be a NT selected in the first 3 rounds this year.

by craig in calgary on Apr 25, 2011 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions

Neild and or Gray

Blaine Sumner

all would be solid depth for Edwards and wouldn’t require a premium pick

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions

I like Ian Williams too

and he’s a 4th-ish round pick.

by u2nspenserfan on Apr 25, 2011 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions

craig represents the "people" I referenced in my above comment :)

Edwards IS good in a rotation… just needs to be “rotated” more often than he used to :)

I am all for drafting a NT in the first 3 rounds this year… but if they don’t , there ARE other options

Prediction: KC will not draft a LB before the 3rd round

by stagdsp on Apr 25, 2011 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions

The problem is Edwards is not a Chief.

The views expressed by craig in calgary do not necessarily represent the views of all Canadians.

by saskwatch on Apr 25, 2011 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions

Whoever we pick won't be one either :)

Till we have a CBA

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions

good point!

Prediction: KC will not draft a LB before the 3rd round

by stagdsp on Apr 25, 2011 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions

and Edwards doesn't play for anyone else until a CBA is signed

so, it’s not like he’s going anywhere

Prediction: KC will not draft a LB before the 3rd round

by stagdsp on Apr 25, 2011 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions

Very dire for immediate and future success

by Larryemcdaniel on Apr 25, 2011 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions

no need to panic, Larry!

Prediction: KC will not draft a LB before the 3rd round

by stagdsp on Apr 25, 2011 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions

From what I've seen

Toribio wasn’t playing very well at NT. I would not be happy going into a year with Toribio as our hope. If we can, keep him on the practice squad just in case of injury. But we should re-sign Smith and draft an NT this year. If you’re not sold on Taylor, cheer for Powe or Ellis. Either way, we need an NT this year along with a WR, SOLB, C, QB, and a power back to groom for the future.

by Chiefs4Life on Apr 25, 2011 5:03 PM CDT up reply actions

The problem is Edwards isn't on the roster.

I hope the resign him even if we draft a nose tackle, but even if they want to, no guarantee they can. That leaves us with Toribio, which quite frankly scares the hell out of me.

The views expressed by craig in calgary do not necessarily represent the views of all Canadians.

by saskwatch on Apr 25, 2011 12:05 PM CDT reply actions

Other teams have it a lot worse than the Chiefs with Roster issues

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions

Same can be said of every position.

We have options at WR, OT, OLB, and C. At 4 of those positions we have options with starting experience:

WR – Tucker, Chambers, and Curtis
OT – Richardson and O’Callaghan
OLB – Vrabel
C – Wiegmann and Niswanger

Now, I’m not saying any of those options are the way we should go. In fact, I’d like to see all of them except Richardson (who I am higher on than some) replaced with better talent. I’m just saying, that this argument applies to just about every position we could draft.

"You can't be fat and fast too; so lift, run, diet, and work." ~ Hank Stram

by citadelchief on Apr 25, 2011 12:08 PM CDT reply actions

of course it does apply to every position

but, the point is, people are worried that there is only 1 NT on the roster (Toribio), and think KC has to reach for a NT or two in the draft or else…

the fact is, NT is a need, but the defense did a pretty decent job last year with Edwards and Smith, and could easily bring both guys back.

Prediction: KC will not draft a LB before the 3rd round

by stagdsp on Apr 25, 2011 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs

The problem is with the lockout the Chiefs can't sign these uys before the draft.

You have to go in to the draft assuming you don’t have any of the free agents on your team. They need to upgrade this position over any other on the team because the lack a decent option under contract.

The views expressed by craig in calgary do not necessarily represent the views of all Canadians.

by saskwatch on Apr 25, 2011 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions

I don't think that's true

of course they can’t sign them before the draft… but neither can any other team.

Chances are, there won’t be too much demand for Edwards or Smith… and KC was probably alreay working on new deals for them before the lockout.

of course it isn’t a sure thing… but I don’t think “under contract” is everything

Prediction: KC will not draft a LB before the 3rd round

by stagdsp on Apr 25, 2011 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions

I think people are more worried about missing out on the "best" NT in the draft when it's a need.

I know I am.

We still get great value at the other positions later in the draft. I don’t see the same value at NT being available later. Maybe Powe, but there are questions about his ability now.

"You can't be fat and fast too; so lift, run, diet, and work." ~ Hank Stram

by citadelchief on Apr 25, 2011 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions

How do you determine value for a NT?

~~sacks~~
~~tackles for loss~~
~~pressures~~

maybe by how good the other players look around him is the best way

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions

That's probably the best way.

But, that’s pretty difficult to judge. What if he’s surrounded by 2nd class talent (like Taylor and Powe were)?

"You can't be fat and fast too; so lift, run, diet, and work." ~ Hank Stram

by citadelchief on Apr 25, 2011 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions

I'll post this here too

Any reason Asamoah is not being considered for the C position?

by u2nspenserfan on Apr 25, 2011 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions

None of us know ?

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions

I just thought that was part of why he was drafted last year..

The ability to slide over to center as well. I thought he played well last year, and I guess I’m wondering why center is a top need if we’ve got a guy on our roster already who could well fit the need.

by u2nspenserfan on Apr 25, 2011 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions

Because then we have a similar problem at G?

That’s actually why I’d be fine with us drafting Pouncey, Hudson, or Moffitt early. They can come in and try out at C. If that doesn’t work out, then they can still (potentially) line up as Gs and we’d be able to move Asamoah in that situation. Maybe not ideal, but worth the consideration.

"You can't be fat and fast too; so lift, run, diet, and work." ~ Hank Stram

by citadelchief on Apr 25, 2011 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions

That is a good plan

How well does Pouncey Zone block, or Moffitt.?

I know Hudson can

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions

Moffitt would need some teaching up.

But he’s a smart guy who has said he prefers the mental challenges he gets at C (part of why I want him in KC).

I think Pouncey is just about NFL ready at either position. Also, I don’t think people realize how close he is with Maurkice. Don’t be surprised if he’s already been getting the inside track on how to transition to the next level.

"You can't be fat and fast too; so lift, run, diet, and work." ~ Hank Stram

by citadelchief on Apr 25, 2011 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions

With Waters and Lilja?

I wouldn’t hate an interior lineman early by any means, but I guess I’m wondering if we need to draft for an immediate starter or just a couple of guys with potential. I guess the point I’m making is that we have the freedom to go more BPA at this spot… whoever falls to us at 21. If Pouncey falls, I definitely wouldn’t mind him.

If we don’t pick up an interior lineman until 3rd-4th, I’d be fine with that too. I do think we need to draft one, I just don’t know that it has to be top-of-the-list.

One other name that was shown dropping in the latest draft was Jimmy Smith. Anybody else intrigued by him? There was some speculation earlier based on Pioli’s comments that he might go cornerback in the first round considering that Carr and Flowers would both be free agents after this season. Smith would be a very good value at 21, and could potentially play some free safety at his size in order to get on the field early.

by u2nspenserfan on Apr 25, 2011 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions

Moffitt wouldn't be drafted until the 3rd.

But with Waters close to retirement and Lilja being close to UFA status, we need to be sure to have guys ready to step up.

"You can't be fat and fast too; so lift, run, diet, and work." ~ Hank Stram

by citadelchief on Apr 25, 2011 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions

I don't like Jimmy Smith at all.

I have a problem with guys who act as their own personal cheerleaders. I’d be surprised if any NFL GMs, coaches, or scouts are as high on Jimmy Smith as Jimmy Smith is.

"You can't be fat and fast too; so lift, run, diet, and work." ~ Hank Stram

by citadelchief on Apr 25, 2011 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions

Smith is also more of a press corner

I can’t remember the last press the Chiefs played.

Well maybe on Gates in the 1st game last year

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions

Yeah. Even then, that was more often just bracketing him.

Chiefs - back in the playoffs in 2011.

by TRSChief on Apr 25, 2011 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions

I also don't think we've had the corners for it.

I love Flowers, but he isn’t a press corner. The versatility I think Smith could give us is the ability to get physical with bigger receivers, which Carr can do a little bit.

Probably right about the character/attitude issues. Seems like there are a lot of them in this year’s draft.

by u2nspenserfan on Apr 25, 2011 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions

Wouldn't mind seeing the Chiefs take my fellow Citadel alum:

Cortez Allen

He’s a little raw and could stand to add about 5 – 10 lbs.

"You can't be fat and fast too; so lift, run, diet, and work." ~ Hank Stram

by citadelchief on Apr 25, 2011 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions

He's a 5th rounder or so, isn't he?

I like him… does he have to do the 2 years or whatever before the NFL? Just curious, given that’s been an issue before.

by u2nspenserfan on Apr 25, 2011 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions

He's projected in the 4th or 5th.

He doesn’t have to do any kind of service. He’s not on contract with anyone, so he’s all set.

"You can't be fat and fast too; so lift, run, diet, and work." ~ Hank Stram

by citadelchief on Apr 25, 2011 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions

I really haven't been round lately

Lemme guess, people all hate Phil Taylor and someone I haven’t heard of is the new sexy pick at 21?

by craig in calgary on Apr 25, 2011 12:12 PM CDT reply actions

Mark Ingram

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions

Chiefs are rumored

To be trading up to the No. 1 pick because Pioli likes Cam Newton’s swagger.

Arrowhead Pride
SBNation.com/NFL

by Joel Thorman on Apr 25, 2011 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs

Crap!

by u2nspenserfan on Apr 25, 2011 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions

Cam Newton likes Cam Newton's Swag

Prediction: KC will not draft a LB before the 3rd round

by stagdsp on Apr 25, 2011 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions

In other news, I heard we can pick up Clausen from CAR for a 5lb order of BBQ

Chiefs - back in the playoffs in 2011.

by TRSChief on Apr 25, 2011 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions

No way he's worth 5lbs

I say we counter with 2lbs and throw in Brodie Croyle.

by Ldub on Apr 25, 2011 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions

Hey,

The Chiefs don’t have to reach for anyone. Other teams are really hurting for some key players. Look at the top of the second round! The Chiefs have a good shot at trading down this year – in every round. Imagine all of the extra picks they could end up with, and still get the guys they want! In every round they’re about 6 – 10 spots above the player they need (by rankings). It’s not all that hard to see the potential.

by David Winton on Apr 25, 2011 12:29 PM CDT reply actions

It would be nice to know if Scott Pioli subscribes to the slotting system Bill Belichick uses.

I don’t know how he could not after 6+ years together

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions

Maybe Belichick uses Pioli's slotting system. :)

The views expressed by craig in calgary do not necessarily represent the views of all Canadians.

by saskwatch on Apr 25, 2011 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions

Good point Joel -

I’m thinking SOLB is the position of higher need on defense right now.

Although I really like Powe, given the choices on the draft board.. it wouldn’t surprise me if we don’t take a nose this year at all.

My 'kick ass' draft..

(21) Akeem Ayers OLB UCLA
(55) Jerrell Powe NT Ole Miss
(86) Edmund Gates WR Abl. Christ.
(118) Jake Kirkpatrick C TCU
(135) Owen Marecic FB Stanford
(139) Pat Devlin QB Delaware
(199) Kealoha Pilares WR Hawaii
(223) Lee Smith TE Marshall

by chiefsfan62 on Apr 25, 2011 1:28 PM CDT via mobile reply actions

I dont necessarily think we need to take a NT early,

but I definitly think we need to draft one. Im not a fan of Toribio, not sure how much upside he has.

Kansas City Chiefs 2011 Offseason
Draft - OLB, C, NT, WR, RT, RB
Resign - Hali, Carr, S. Smith, Gilberry, Richardson, Edwards
Sign - Mid-tier WR and FS
Pay - Flowers

by bradelli58 on Apr 25, 2011 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions

Does anyone else think free agents are the ones winning from the lock out?

All these teams are going to be over paying to fill holes that they didn’t fill with the draft. I hope I’m wrong but I think it is going to happen.

by Helmets on Apr 25, 2011 1:52 PM CDT reply actions

Why not draft the best NT prospect to come along in years

I don’t think we should just draft a guy to draft him, like last year I didn’t think any of the NT’s were worth drafting but when a guy comes along that has the potential to change the look of your whole D within a couple years you have to do it. The NT is as important to the 34 as the QB is to the offense.

Yea we can draft a less than stellar NT in the later rounds and hope he develops into an adequate 2 down player or we can take a true NT that can play 3 downs, which comes along not very often.

by RamX21 on Apr 25, 2011 1:58 PM CDT reply actions

I am breathless now

Who is this specimen you have found for our NT?

"Hair cut time.''

by Steve_Chiefs on Apr 25, 2011 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions

Steve I'm sure you already know

i’m talking about Phil Taylor

by RamX21 on Apr 25, 2011 9:59 PM CDT up reply actions

Blaine Sumner!

by DangerVaughn on Apr 25, 2011 3:27 PM CDT reply actions

are people seriously thinking this guy will be an NFL player?

seems like he’s somewhat of a joke to me

Prediction: KC will not draft a LB before the 3rd round

by stagdsp on Apr 25, 2011 3:58 PM CDT up reply actions

Dude is on more juice than Tropicana

and plays against Joes university of pizza making and gas pumping

by RamX21 on Apr 25, 2011 10:01 PM CDT up reply actions

Toribio and Edwards aren't 'options'

any more than the choice between a gun to the head or a knife in the belly are options.

by Dagda on Apr 26, 2011 8:16 AM CDT reply actions

There are a few positions where you don’t choose 2nd or 3rd choices and NT is one of them. NT in the 34 is the crucial position. It all starts with him. If he fails to do his job the whole house of cards go down. We were very lucky last year having the weakest schedule in the whole NFL. We don’t have that luxury this year and Big Ron will more than likely not play nearly as well. So lets quit pussyfooting around and take the best NT in this draft if he is there at 21. could we fail? Sure there are no sure things in this level, but the odds are all in our favor with Taylor. And that is what it is all about. Nothing ventured, nothing gained would apply.

by Jim from KC on Apr 26, 2011 12:32 PM CDT reply actions