Kansas City Chiefs 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Alex Cappa
By Ben Almquist
The Kansas City Chiefs are intimately aware of how important the offensive line is. Alex Cappa of Humboldt State could be the steal of the draft.
Over the past few seasons, the Kansas City Chiefs have invested quite a bit in the offensive line. That is likely something that will continue as long as Andy Reid is head coach. Reid has always been a proponent of winning in the trenches first. There are some intriguing linemen in this year’s draft, and Alex Cappa is one name to keep an eye on.
Since Andy Reid took over in Kansas City, the team has drafted Eric Fisher, Larry Tardif, Zach Fulton, Mitch Morse, and Parker Ehinger. All five have started at one point or another. The Chiefs have also gone out and signed top right tackle Mitchell Schwartz, among other talented players. KC is willing to invest in its offensive line.
Now it may not seem like a top priority for Kansas City to target a tackle this year. Most fans would point to left guard as the more pressing need. However, getting reliable depth on the offensive line should absolutely be a priority. The Chiefs have seen first-hand how quickly things can change when the OL suffers an injury.
A guy like Alex Cappa could be good insurance.
Alex Cappa – OT – Humboldt State
NFLDraftScout.com Scouting Report
If the Kansas City Chiefs want a solid depth option who might challenge for a starting spot in a year or two, Alex Cappa is the man. The small school standout has already become one of the favorite prospects of a number of OL-focused football analysts. He’s gone from under-the-radar to high profile very quickly.
Alex Cappa is a quick-footed offensive tackle who utilizes leverage and positioning to stonewall pass rushers. Good frame for the position, and is built correctly for the offensive line with a thick lower body. Excellent hand placement, and smooth bending to maximize his positioning. Plays with a
mean
vicious streak and is constantly looking for work. Efficient and violent in his movements.
Stat To Know: Alex Cappa was named GNAC Offensive Lineman of the Year in all 4 seasons.
The biggest question on Alex Cappa is the level of competition he faced, though that was largely debunked at the Senior Bowl. There will be some question as to Cappa’s ability to play any position besides left tackle, as he didn’t line up anywhere else. Pad level can get high at times. May need to add some bulk before playing in the NFL.
Shore Up The Offensive Line
The Kansas City Chiefs are generally set along the offensive line. Most of their starters are already locked up, including both starting tackles. However, injuries have been an issue every year and the Chiefs need to shore up the depth chart for sure. Looking for guys with high upside is a good way to address that.
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The Chiefs may eventually look for a replacement at left tackle for Eric Fisher. The former first-round pick has been ok at left tackle, but not the consistently dominating force you want. With the team now being built around Patrick Mahomes, it’s important that the offensive line be a position of strength to keep him healthy.
There is a ton of value to be had in drafting Alex Cappa. Unfortunately, a very strong online campaign has made him a well-known prospect. That makes it unlikely that teams will try and wait to draft the small school talent later in the draft. His Senior Bowl performance also produced a lot of attention.
The Kansas City Chiefs may find themselves in a position to really address the depth chart with the 2018 NFL Draft. One of the more pressing areas to address is going to be the offensive line. The Chiefs have had to turn to their depth there throughout recent seasons. Kansas City would be wise to invest with someone like Alex Cappa.