KC Chiefs Defensive Needs First 2016 NFL Mock Draft
By Bobby Miller
Round 2 | Pick 28: Kyler Fackrell
This next selection makes sense to me for a number of reasons. With Justin Houston‘s 2016 status uncertain, the KC Chiefs may need all the help they can get to maintain the high level of their pass rush which ranked fourth in adjusted sack rate last year.
Even if Houston comes back, and, somehow, Dee Ford completely replicates Houston’s production, Tamba Hali is definitely not getting any younger.
This is where Kyler Fackrell comes in. Zierlein details Fackrell’s strengths in his NFL.com scouting report.
“Premium length and athleticism,” he said of Fackrell. “Played quarterback and wide receiver in high school and lettered in basketball and volleyball.”
“Rangy tackler who is able to shadow the ball all over the field. Has length and arm extension to punch and control the point of attack.”
“Functional strength is good enough against the run. Has length and motor for tremendous tackle radius.”
Zierlein also added, “Potential is there to become plus pass rusher. Combines forward lean, hip explosion and long arms to crank up speed-to-power pocket push. Upfield burst covers substantial ground in first three steps.”
Fackrell did sit out his 2014 season with an ACL tear, but I think this may be a good thing outside of the first round. In any athletic scenario, the assumption is that every player on your team will be completely healthy all of the time.
Of course this is far from the truth, but, disregarding fear of injury, Fackrell is a uniquely talented prospect with enormous potential. Zierlein had even higher praise in his closing statements.
“When it comes to the length and athleticism teams will look for off the edge,” Zierlein said. “Fackrell will be one of the poster boys.”
“His field versatility, coverage talent and potential as a pass rusher could make him one of the fastest rising prospects in this draft and a future contender for a Pro Bowl nod.”
At 6’5, 245 lbs., Fackrell would be the tallest outside linebacker on the KC Chiefs roster. Fackrell’s combination of length, athleticism, and pass rushing skills could be another awesome wrench to throw in opposing blocking schemes in order to make the KC Chiefs pass rush elite again.
Because of his talent and athleticism at the outside linebacker position, the KC Chiefs address an immediate need and make a long term investment in the position by drafting Fackrell.
Next: Palo Alto Run-Stopper