2017 NFL Draft Kansas City Chiefs Scouting Report: Storm Norton
By Ben Almquist
The Kansas City Chiefs have shored up their offensive line for the future. However, they may look to add some depth like Storm Norton of Toledo.
Over the past couple of seasons, the Kansas City Chiefs have made significant investments in the offensive line. However, there may still be a roster opening for a good swing or reserve tackle. Storm Norton from Toledo is a guy that some folks are starting to look at.
The Chiefs have put a lot of work into solidifying their offensive line. Their starting tackles, Mitchell Schwartz and Eric Fisher, are both signed long-term. The same is true at the guard positions. However, there may still be some questions along the depth chart, especially at tackle.
The Chiefs signed Mike Person to a one-year deal this offseason. However, that should not be viewed as a big move. In fact, Person’s contract would indicate that he is very much on the roster bubble. A draft pick would have a fair chance at taking that spot on the Kansas City final roster.
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This year’s draft class is not considered very strong when it comes to the offensive line. However, that should not discourage the Chiefs from taking a late round chance on a lineman. You never know what the “experts” might have missed. Worst case scenario is the waste of a late pick. That is something John Dorsey is not afraid of.
#shrinegame #StormNorton played LOT for the #Rockets but projects on the right side. Has improved his stock everyday
— Dan Shonka (@Ourlads_Shonka) January 19, 2017
Storm Norton – OT – Toledo
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The Toledo offense was a force this past season, and Storm Norton was a cornerstone of that. The two-time All-MAC tackle was a key presence on the offensive line. The Rockets ran much of their offense to Norton’s side, showing a lot of trust in their tackle.
Storm Norton has a great frame and size for the tackle position. Has long arms to engage the defender and keep them off balance. Moves well laterally, and shows the ability to get out in front when asked to pull. Keeps his balance well and stays upright when in pass protection.
The biggest weaknesses for Storm Norton are a result of playing in a two point stance throughout college. Looks sluggish off the snap, and doesn’t set his base quickly enough. Size is a bit misleading when watching the tape as he doesn’t play strong enough. Looks to ride the defender away from the play instead of actively controlling him.
Storm Norton has some real potential for the NFL, but it will take some patience. He’s got some great tools that I think the Chiefs could get use out of. He’ll be available a little later in the draft, so he could be worth the investment. Kansas City likes to get project players, so Norton could be an attracitve option.
Competition breeds improvement in the NFL, and the Kansas City Chiefs have stuck to that. John Dorsey has built a pretty strong depth chart. However, the offensive line could use a bit more attention. This might not be the best draft class for that, but I don’t doubt the Chiefs will take a look at a few of these guys.