2017 NFL Draft Kansas City Chiefs Scouting Report: Alek Torgersen
By Ben Almquist
The Kansas City Chiefs will be taking a quarterback in this year’s draft. Alek Torgersen of Penn could be a late round target for them.
All signs seem to be pointing to the Kansas City Chiefs drafting a quarterback in the 2017 NFL Draft. However, when the Chiefs take that player is still very much in question. Alek Torgersen of Penn could be a solid option in the later rounds for KC.
The Chiefs made their intentions pretty clear earlier this offseason when they released Nick Foles. That left Kansas City with only two quarterbacks, Alex Smith and Tyler Bray, as reasonable options for the 2017 roster. Of course, it is Smith that has so many fans and analysts looking at quarterbacks in this draft.
Alex Smith is the starter for 2017, and is under contract through 2018. That is the reason why the Chiefs will be looking for a new starter in this year’s draft. It is also the reason why they won’t force the issue. Kansas City knows they need to address their future starter, but do have the option to wait another season.
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We have seen the Chiefs doing their due diligence when it comes to quarterbacks. Whatever decision John Dorsey makes, it won’t be from a lack of information. However, there will be a lot of teams looking for quarterbacks this year. That means the Kansas City may not have the opportunity to get the guy they want.
Chad Kelly falling off the map could help back end guys like #Penn QB Alek Torgersen - quality arm, accurate & protects ball - get drafted.
— Dion Caputi (@nfldraftupdate) April 11, 2017
Alek Torgersen – QB – Penn
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The Ivy League isn’t known for its NFL talent, but Alek Torgersen did get some notice during hit time at Penn. Named to the all conference team twice, Torgersen also set school passing records in his senior season. His athleticism and intelligence has attracted the interest of several teams.
Alek Torgersen has prototypical size for an NFL quarterback. Very athletic, coming from a zone read offense. Throws an accurate football with plenty of velocity. Shows nice touch on his deep balls. Intelligence is a given considering the school he plays at.
The negatives on Alek Torgersen start with the system he comes from. No experience calling plays or making checks and audibles. Never had to make complex reads. Has a tendency to stare down receivers. Very indecisive when pre-set reads are not available. Does not have desired arm strength.
Alek Torgersen will not be the Chiefs choice as a starting quarterback. However, he may have some value as a backup. His athleticism makes him a guy that can add an additional wrinkle when brought in. While he doesn’t have any experience working with the mental side of the position, his background would suggest he can learn.
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There may not be a bigger decision for the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2017 NFL Draft than what they do at quarterback. Fans may end up being disappointed as the Chiefs are not guaranteed to take one in the first round. However, at some point in the draft, KC will be taking a quarterback.