KC Chiefs Go With Safe Pick In 2016 Mock Draft

Round 1 – Pick 28: Taylor Decker (Offensive Tackle, Ohio State)

The Chiefs need some help on the offensive line. Alex Smith was pressured on nearly 34 percent of his drop backs during the 2015 season. While he has the ability to scramble around, keeping him healthy is one of the Chiefs’ best bets at contending.

Taylor Decker isn’t a flashy pick nor will he be anyone’s favorite. So many ‘play makers’ are taken in the first round that picks like this one seem rather boring. Taylor Decker may not be interesting, but he’s a safe pick.

Andy Reid and John Dorsey have used a first-round pick on a lineman, offense or defense, a combined 13 times since 1999. They have a tendency to fill the trenches and take the best player available.

CBS Sports’ big board had Decker ranked as the 20th overall draft prospect. This is what they had to say about him:

"They don’t come much safer than Decker, the Big Ten’s Offensive Lineman of the Year. Massive and athletic, he has enough agility to potentially remain at left tackle in the NFL, plus the power, grit and tenacity to project nicely to the right side."

Donald Stephenson is likely on his way out of Kansas City. Eric Fisher has gotten better in each year as a Chief and may finally be ready to handle the left tackle position effectively. If not, this pick gives the Chiefs options.

Decker profiles as more of a right tackle, but some think he might have what it takes to stick on the left side of the line.

Next: Don't Be So Defensive