2017 NFL Draft Kansas City Chiefs Scouting Report: DeAngelo Henderson
By Ben Almquist
It is pretty clear that the Kansas City Chiefs are in the market for a running back. DeAngelo Henderson of Coastal Carolina could be a late steal.
With the loss of Jamaal Charles, the Kansas City Chiefs are certainly going to be in the market for a running back. The Chiefs run game wasn’t bad in 2016, but it lost that dynamic ability to create big plays. DeAngelo Henderson of Coastal Carolina could help bring that ability back to the offense.
The Chiefs weren’t able to be as explosive on the ground last year as we had seen in previous seasons. Though a talented back in his own right, Spencer Ware was only able to manage three carries over 20 yards. While it isn’t fair to expect Ware to replicate what Jamaal Charles can do, Kansas City simply needs more from its running game.
The Chiefs did make a move at running back by signing CJ Spiller this offseason. However, I’m convinced he is more of a measuring stick for a rookie than an actual attempt to boost the run game. There is also Charcandrick West, but he isn’t a great fit for the KC offense as an every down back.
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The Kansas City Chiefs have checked out quite a few running backs through the draft process. That interest is almost certain to lead to a draft pick, probably in the 3rd through 5th rounds. Fortunately for the Chiefs, this is an excellent draft to be looking for a back. I’m confident they will find a good one.
Similar to his productive career, #CCU RB DeAngelo Henderson had an underrated Combine w/ a 4.48 40-yard dash, 34" vert. He'll get drafted.
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) March 8, 2017
DeAngelo Henderson – RB – Coastal Carolina
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It was pretty much a mismatch every time DeAngelo Henderson stepped on the field for Coastal Carolina. The diminutive back racked up honors and records during his time in college. His ability to break off big plays at the drop of a hat should be enticing to many offensive coordinators.
DeAngelo Henderson is an explosive runner with great long speed. Has the ability to cut quickly and shows very good lateral agility to make defenders miss in space. Runs bigger than his size, refusing to go down on initial contact and breaking arm tackles. Excellent receiver out of the backfield. Henderson is a threat to score from anywhere on the field.
The negatives that most people see with DeAngelo Henderson are related to his size (though I don’t agree). Does struggle to be patient and let a play develop. Will often resort to power in the open field rather than making a guy miss. Pass blocking skills need a good bit of refinement.
I LOVE DeAngelo Henderson as a potential pick for the Chiefs. As a small back from a small school, he’s likely going to be available on day three of the NFL Draft. Kansas City should absolutely jump on that as he is a perfect fit for what they need. As for his size, he’s short but listed at 209 lbs. That’s a thick build that should hold up just fine in the NFL.
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If the Kansas City Chiefs can get their running game going again in 2017, they will be a very difficult team to beat. This year’s class of running backs in the NFL Draft looks very strong. The Chiefs should be able to find themselves a playmaker for the backfield.