With the 23rd Pick of the 2014 NFL Draft, the Chiefs Select: Dee Ford
- Updated: May 8, 2014
Dee Ford, DE/OLB, 6-2¼, 245, Auburn
Key stats: Had 29 tackles, 14.5 of them for a loss and 10.5 sacks in 2013
Strengths: As quick off the ball as any player in this draft. … Ford is a tenacious player with definite pass-rush ability on the next level. … If he can develop these skills he will have a long career in the league. Has good bend and flattens to the quarterback. … Is very competitive and vocal leader. … Plays with an edge, and has a pass rusher’s mentality, meaning he is relentless in his pursuit of the quarterback. Is a leverage player and works to stay underneath offensive linemen. … Doesn’t quit on plays and hustles to the whistle.
Weaknesses: Really needs to develop counter moves as he is mostly a speed rusher at this point. … If not, he will just be a situational pass rusher. … Has a good slap-rip move to the inside, but doesn’t use it nearly enough. … Decent holding his ground against the run, but he doesn’t make many tackles unless he wins initially. … Has relatively short arms. … May have a real problem getting engulfed by NFL tackles and tight ends due to his average size. … Played almost exclusively as a rusher. … Has little to no experience dropping in coverage. … Has had back (disc) problems, which is a concern.
Conclusion: Played in three- or four-point stance as well as standing. Will likely project as a 3-4 outside linebacker or sub-package rusher if he’s on a 4-3 team. … Will have to work on dropping into coverage and playing in space if he is to maximize his career in the NFL. …
NFL comparison: Cliff Avril.
The Kansas City Chiefs have selected DE/OLB Dee Ford of Auburn University.
Why It Works: The Chiefs need some depth at their front seven to spell Justin Houston and Tamba Hali. Ford is an NFL “Buck” for all intensive purposes.
Draft Grade: – C+ – While Ford is an excellent prospect, Stephon Tuitt was still sitting in the wings waiting to be taken. Tuitt is ideal as a defensive-end for a 3-4 Scheme. In terms of an outside linebacker/defensive end, the Chiefs could have waited until round three and found a more economical pick. The Chiefs really need a wide receiver and Marquise Lee is still on the board. Lee, is the third best receiver in this draft behind Brandin Cooks and Mike Evans.
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