The defensive line has been a strength for the Chiefs ever since Dontari Poe was drafted. The big nose tackle has progressed into one of the most dominating, disruptive and devastating defenders in the NFL. When paired with Jaye Howard and Allen Bailey, the Chiefs have an excellent three man defensive front. However, depth is a slight issue, and the future is far from certain.
Poe is entering the final year of his contract and will demand a big pay day next offseason, and Jaye Howard has just signed a two year deal. Beyond that, the Chiefs have few options. It would make sense, therefore, to draft defensive lineman D.J. Reader in the sixth round, mirroring the pick of Rakeem Nunez-Roches.
Reader excels when he is single blocked. He has an excellent motor, generates great power from his stout stance and has decent technique, though he is sometimes over-aggressive and can be eased away from the quarterback. He showed his strength and power with an impressive workout at the Senior Bowl, and if he can add some more upper body power, could become a solid NFL starter with the right coaching. Kansas City won’t be able to pay both Howard and Poe, but a line consisting of Allen Bailey, one of Poe or Howard and a developmental project like Streater would be more than adequate in today’s NFL.
Next: Round 7: Pick 249