NFL Draft results: Chiefs select TCU tackle Lucas Niang at No. 96

The Kansas City Chiefs selected TCU tackle Lucas Niang at pick No. 96 overall in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

Unless the Chiefs trade back into the third round, their next pick will be on Saturday.

Lucas Niang, Tackle

Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

TCU • 6’6” • 315 pounds

Late in the draft, the Chiefs get exceptional value. A hip injury allowed Niang to fall late into the third round — but in the very near future, he could be a starter at tackle.

When healthy, Niang is an intriguing blend of size, athleticism and movement skills. Considering his body type, it is surprising how light he is on his feet. He is effective working into the second level because of the quickness — and his ability to adjust his aiming point while on the move. His initial punch packs a lot of force, helping to clear out space on combo blocks before climbing to the second level. Niang has had mixed results as a pass protector — injury limitations may have had an effect — but shows the foot quickness to develop. Niang is patient — with heavy hands to get rushers off their path — and has the reactive athleticism to mirror inside moves. He doesn’t get caught off-guard by stunts or late blitzes, often stopping late rushers in their path.

For the Chiefs to take a swing on a player that we had as a top 60 prospect in the KC Draft Guide, the medicals obviously checked out. Whether the Chiefs elect to move on from Eric Fisher — or kick Niang inside to play guard — they got a quality player late in the third round.

I love the pick. It will be fascinating to see how the Chiefs develop him this season. Do they start him inside, hoping to kick him outside in the future — or is this a true redshirt year? Either way, this is a great pick.

Chiefs Draft Picks

• First round (32nd): RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire (LSU)
• Second round (63rd): LB Willie Gay Jr. (Mississippi State)
• Third round (96th): OT Lucas Niang (TCU)
• Fourth round (138th)
• Fifth round (177th)