2020 NFL Draft: 5 players Chiefs could take in Round 1

MIAMI, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 02: Head coach Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs talks to Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl LIV against the San Francisco 49ers at Hard Rock Stadium on February 02, 2020 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

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ANN ARBOR, MI – OCTOBER 06: Cesar Ruiz #51 of the Michigan Wolverines blocks against the Maryland Terrapins at Michigan Stadium on October 6, 2018 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by G Fiume/Maryland Terrapins/Getty Images) /

3. Cesar Ruiz

Protecting Mahomes should always be one of the Chiefs’ top priorities. It’s particularly important for the Kansas City offensive line to make sure he doesn’t face a significant pass rush right up the middle.

When you look at the projected starters along the Chiefs’ offensive front there’s a clear weakness at left guard. Nick Allegretti cannot be trusted to keep Mahomes clean in 2020.

That’s why drafting Ruiz with their first round selection makes a lot of sense for the Kansas City front office. He’s got the versatility to play any of the interior offensive line positions at a high level. The combination of his quality and versatility could make him a very valuable player for the defending Super Bowl champions.

Drafting a guard without overwhelming physical gifts may not excite Chiefs fans on draft night, but it could pay big dividends for Mahomes down the road. Don’t be surprised if Kansas City spends an early pick on a guard with the ability to start right away. Ruiz might be the best option they encounter.

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