NFL mock draft 2023: Chiefs 7-round post-Combine projection replaces Brown, Clark
124. Scouting Report. Kansas State. 4. player. Pick Analysis. RB. Deuce Vaughn
Deuce Vaughn in the Chiefs offense just seems completely unfair
Whenever Clyde Edwards-Helaire was selected as the final pick of the first round on the heels of Kansas City winning the first Super Bowl with Mahomes, it was a clear luxury pick. Unfortunately for them, it didn’t work out and now CEH is almost on his way out as the team won’t pick up the fifth-year option. And again, Jerick McKinnon is a free agent.
Even if the team has Isiah Pacheco, another running back couldn’t hurt.
This is when you make a luxury pick on a running back and Deuce Vaughn is the perfect candidate. Though diminutive in stature, Vaughn is a certified playmaker with elite quickness, great speed, and an overall impressive arsenal of traits. Seeing him in this offense would be something special and perhaps the best way for him to find his niche in the NFL.
124. Nebraska. Trey Palmer. 4. player. WR. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
Trey Palmer’s monster Combine should have him on the Chiefs’ radar
Truth be told, the Chiefs don’t seem all too worried about their wide receiver room. The reported plan is to look at midseason trade acquisition Kadarius Toney as the WR1, to try and re-sign JuJu Smith-Schuster, and let Mecole Hardman walk. With that said, they could still look to add some more depth and Trey Palmer made a name for himself in Indianapolis.
Palmer is clearly a raw prospect but the physical tools that made him a 5-star recruit are evident. He ran a 4.33 in the 40 at the Combine and really showed elite speed in his toolbox. He might take some time but Kansas City doesn’t need him to be a star. He’s the perfect addition in this range of picks.
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. EDGE. Viliami Fehoko. player. San Jose State. 5. 124
More EDGE depth is key and Viliami Fehoko is a certified sleeper in the draft
As mentioned, there’s a chance that the Chiefs could be looking to add more than just Hall to replenish the edge rushers on the roster. Viliami Fehoko could be an absolute steal if they can get him with their fifth-round pick.
Playing at San Jose State, the level of competition wasn’t as high as in other leagues, but Fehoko was one of the most effective pass-rushers in the country, accruing 12 sacks in the 2022 season and 26 for his entire career with the Spartans. He’ll need some development in an NFL strength program, but the framework is there for this to be looked back upon as a massive value pick.