Currently, the Chiefs have two defensive ends on the roster - Tamba Hali and Turk McBride. Hali will obviously anchor the opposite side of what used to be Jared Allen's end, leaving the other end spot open for competition.
As it stands, the Kansas City Chiefs do not have a clear cut starter ready to step into place. McBride had a slow time adjusting to the NFL last year and I don't believe he is ready to step into a full time starting role at defensive end. This could change as the off season and training camp go on but it's hard for me to believe that the Chiefs have penciled in McBride as the starting left end.
With free agency virtually over, the Chiefs will be quickly turning to the draft this weekend for their defensive end needs. Here's a look at the top rated defensive ends, courtesy of NFL Draft Countdown.
| 1. | Chris Long | Virginia |
| 2. | Vernon Gholston | Ohio St. |
| 3. | Derrick Harvey | Florida |
| 4. |
Philip Merling |
Clemson |
| 5. | Calais Campbell | Miami |
| 6. | Lawrence Jackson |
USC |
So, is it going to be Chris Long or Vernon Gholston? I would be happy with either one of those although I doubt Chris Long makes to to the Chiefs at #5.
If not there, do the Chiefs target who the Vikings were targeting with their #17 pick before they traded it to KC -- Derrick Harvey out of Florida?
Or are the Chiefs willing to delve much deeper in the draft and develop a defensive end they feel has value and potential?
I have to admit that my knowledge of this year's defensive ends is limited. I wasn't expecting us to have to address this position in the draft. Anyone have any suggestions?