2015 NFL Mock Draft: KC Chiefs Draft Best Player Available

Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Round 1, Pick 18

Eric Kendricks is a 6″ 230 pound inside linebacker out of UCLA. The KC Chiefs have been looking for a player to fill the role next to Derrick Johnson for years and Kendricks can be that guy. Kendricks was easily the best player available when I selected and he also fills a position of need.

Derrick Johnson is 32 years-old coming off of a torn Achilles he suffered at the beginning of the 2014 season. Johnson has played at a very high level for the KC Chiefs since they drafted him in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft but the truth is he isn’t going to get any younger and you never know how he will rebound from his injury.

Kendricks can be the future replacement of Johnson and learn from one of the best inside linebackers in the game while still contributing in a big way by playing next to him in 2015. It doesn’t get much better than learning from a three time pro bowler and ten year NFL veteran.

Kendricks had a great Senior season leading the NCAA in solo tackles with 101. He was also awarded the Dick Butkus Award and Ronnie Lott Trophy in 2014. The 2014 season wasn’t a fluke as he also lead the NCAA in solo tackles in 2012 when he had 91. He also lead the Pac-12 in assisted tackles in 2012 with 58.

Take a look at some workout footage for Kendricks before continuing through the Chiefs picks.

Next: Offensive Line Help