Kansas City Chiefs: Setting 2018 rookie expectations

With the draft in the rearview mirror, the Kansas City Chiefs hauled in six young talents with hopes of their services delivering a magnitude of contributions.

Back around this time in 2017, as I was just beginning my Kansas City Chiefs blogging career, I was sitting at my computer with writer’s block. I knew I was interested in breaking down the 2017 draft class in some way, shape, or form, but I was not exactly sure how.

Key in about three Dr. Peppers later, and a few (hundred) deep breaths, the idea dawned on me. This idea of setting the bar, if you will, for each rookie sounded like something that be a blast to write, as well as draw in numerous readers. If you happened to miss it last year, or want to see how close I was on my predictions, click here.

Alright, alright, enough about me, and let’s jump right into it. Ironically enough, the Kansas City Chiefs ended up with six draft selections this year, just as they did last season. Breeland Speaks, Derrick Nnadi, Dorian O’Daniel, Armani Watts, Tremon Smith, and Kahlil McKenzie all heard their named called, as they were drafted by the Chiefs.

General manager Brett Veach went strictly defense during his first draft as a GM. Six of the six players were all defensive products in college, though, McKenzie is a different story (we will get to that later).

In 2017 the defense just seemed stagnant, as if they needed a reboot. Some call this draft class boring, and not flashy, which I agree with in most aspects. However, despite not drafting any “media household names”, Veach did in fact bring in a much-needed group of rookies.

This was a draft class the team needed desperately. Veach did a spectacular job bringing in tough football players to create depth, and versatility. Consider this a breath of fresh air for the organization.

So, without further ado,let’s jump right into it, as I attempt to set the bar for each of the six rookies that create the 2018 NFL draft class.