The Chiefs have a lot of holes to fill -- that much was made clear by both Todd Haley and Scott Pioli during their press conferences at this year's NFL Combine. Both mentioned that the Chiefs were a four-win team, so obviously there are talent deficiencies and holes to fill at nearly every position on and off the field. And after adding some significant coaches and free agents, it's good to see the Chiefs addressing some needs.
But arguably the biggest position of need still has yet to be addressed: linebacker. The Chiefs playing a 3-4 means that there needs to be four quality guys on defense and, much of the time, that just hasn't been the case. Sure, we were all surprised by the play of Corey Mays. Sure, it's an asset to have a leader on and off the field with Mike Vrabel. Sure, the coaching staff seems to be enamored with Demorrio Williams. And, of course, there's the absolute surprising year from the Chiefs unquestionable defensive MVP in Tamba Hali. Yet to those outside of Kansas City, it's not exactly a foursome that conjures images of greatness.
So while some may say we have some players and possibilities at the spot, I think most of us would admit the position deserves some attention. Andra Davis got some notice as he was cut by the Broncos recently and he's certainly familiar to new Defensive Coordinator Romeo Crennel. Some have the Chiefs possibly choosing a linebacker in Rolando McClain in the draft. It seems that if there's a decent name at the position available, either in FA or in the upcoming draft, the guy has someone rooting for him to join the Chiefs. All except for one.
What about Kirk Morrison?
Check out the reasons why after the jump:
Who? What? Consider this: He's only 28. He's led the Raiders in tackles four of the last five seasons and had 133 last year. Here's his latest read from Scouts, Inc.:Morrison is an extremely instinctive LB who has the size, strength and speed to make plays all over the field. He is very quick to read and react. He's physical against the run and is a good solid tackler. Morrison can take on and shed blocks quickly. He has good lateral quickness and is agile enough in space to make plays against quick change-of-direction runners. He knows how to play with knee bend and he uses his hands well play off contact. In passing situations, he does a good job of gaining depth quickly and reacting to patterns in zone situations. He can anticipate and get a good break on the short to intermediate throws. He is a player that should continue to contribute at a high level and does not get enough credit for his production.
Somehow, the Raiders don't value MLB and have put their leading tackler out there for a third round choice. Even stranger, Gregg Rosenthal of NBC Sports noted "The Raiders would seemingly be thrilled if Morrison signs an offer sheet elsewhere." While losing a draft choice might not be of interest, it's gotta be a great trade off to acquire a savvy, intelligent NFL linebacker who can help quarterback the defense in the middle for the cost of Alex Magee's spot last season, right?