The Kansas City Chiefs scouting department continues to put in work in preparation for the first round of the 2011 NFL draft on April 28. The latest prospects we know about are a pair of offensive tackles, both of which are expected to be first or early second round picks.
If GM Scott Pioli is looking for big, smart and tough football players, then he can cross off the big part for Colorado OT Nate Solder. The Chiefs are among several teams that have reportedly invited Solder in for a visit, including the Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos and New England Patriots. [Editor's note The story on this from the Chaffee County Times also lists the Baltimore Colts as a team he plans on visiting. Baltimore Colts?] Solder stands 6'8" and weighs 312 pounds. He went 23rd to the Philadelphia Eagles in our mock draft.
The Chiefs have also worked out Mississippi State OT Derek Sherrod, who is another first round candidate. He comes from the SEC, a conference Pioli has liked before, and stands 6'5" and weighs 312 pounds.
I generally wouldn't complain anytime the Chiefs try to address the offensive or defensive line. I think, when in doubt, go with the big guys. That said, I'm not sure offensive tackle is the biggest need for the Chiefs right now. We would need to know how they feel about Branden Albert at left tackle and Barry Richardson at right tackle to determine how they feel about offensive tackle.