KC Chiefs: Grading The 2015 NFL Draft Class

Round One: Marcus Peters

Grade: A+

When the Chiefs took Marcus Peters with the first overall pick they were taking a big gamble.

Peters’ had great instincts and was a tremendous athlete, but he had also proven to be a headache for his coaches in college. He was dismissed from the team after a number of disagreements with coaches on the sidelines, and the enigmatic Peters was in limbo.

Peters has been nothing short of a super star since joining the Chiefs. He will give up a big play from time to time, but for a rookie playing one of the NFL’s toughest positions he’s adapted well so far.

In his rookie year, Peters totaled nine interceptions including one in the playoff win against Houston. He nearly had an interception in the playoff game VS New England, but the ball bounced out of his arms. (Too bad it wasn’t a little more deflated)

His eight picks during the regular season were good enough to tie as the league leader in INTs. He also led the league with passes defended, 26, and returned two of his interceptions for touchdowns.

Just how long did the Chiefs have to wait for Peters to make an impact? Try his first defensive snap.

Just how long did the Chiefs have to wait for Peters to make an impact? Try his first defensive snap. He intercepted a Brian Hoyer pass on the first offensive play for the Texans to help the Chiefs jump out to a big lead early. Welcome to the NFL!

He was recently named ‘Defensive Rookie of the Year’ by Pro Football Writers of America. He also made the first, of what will hopefully be many, pro-bowl team of his career.

He did give up seven touchdowns as a rookie, but that can likely be corrected as he learns more and matures more. I wouldn’t expect his interception numbers to be as high as they were this year in the future as he’ll likely earn less targets the more damage he does. Expect good things from this rookie going forward.

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