While it's true that the Kansas City Chiefs must address their offensive line in this draft, their defensive line must also get some attention. The Chief's defense is something that has, at worst, been average and, at best, one of the most dominant in the league for the past couple of years.
Heading into next year, that may change for the Chiefs. They still have defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, which means his defensive scheme will allow for opportunities for their players to close in on the opposing quarterback, but they lost a lot of talent in free agency that may suggest their defense will take a step back next season.
Chris Jones has been a playoff riser and all-around-star for their defensive line, many times wreaking havoc along the offensive line and making plays for himself while also taking up space for others. Next season, he'll be 31, and beyond him, the Chiefs' defensive line depth isn't the best.
A couple of years ago, they used a first-round pick on George Karlaftis, and that worked out extremely well for them as he is their second star alongside Jones, but it's about time they use another first-round pick to give them even more help, to ensure their defense remains atop the NFL.
At least, that's what Jared Dublin, sports writer for CBS Sports, believes in his recent mock draft. He predicts the Chiefs will use the 31st overall pick to select Derrick Harmon, a defensive lineman prospect from the University of Oregon.
"Kansas City could use some help for Chris Jones on the defensive interior. The depth chart is pretty barren beyond him. Enter Harmon, who can help wreck things on the inside", said Dublin.
This isn't the first time Harmon has been linked to the Chiefs. In fact, across many mock drafts, he was the Chief's most mocked player. In 2024, he had his best year with the Oregon Ducks by having five sacks, two forced fumbles, 45 total tackles, and swatting down two passes.
He's a dynamic pass rusher who would benefit from increased attention from Jones and Karlaftis, which would lead to him having more one-on-one scenarios and taking advantage of that.
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