NFL Draft Needs: Kansas City Chiefs

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Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs are a team that won't be back in this position come next April, barring serious injury problems.

They have a good young quarterback in Brodie Croyle, a top tier running back in Larry Johnson, and an improving defense. Save a few pieces of the puzzle, and this is a team that will likely go somewhere around 8-8 next season.

Their main problems are their youth and their age.

Tony Gonzalez and Larry Johnson aren't getting any younger.  But Brodie Croyle and Derrick Johnson are still learning the ropes and have only a few years' experience in the league.

The only way I can see this team not becoming a playoff team in a few years is if their age cancels out their youth, and their inexperience cancels out their veteran leadership.

Possible Draft Directions

With Larry Johnson's age, they could start to look for his replacement.  Darren McFadden is a good candidate, and could still be available despite his talent.

If the Chiefs go by current need, they could also look toward the wide receiver position.  DeSean Jackson is a good receiver and an exceptional returner.  Although I personally think he isn't a top five pick, the need at that position could make the Chiefs take him, and I don't think it's that crazy to take Jackson fifth.

Their offensive line needs work.  You can't win games unless you win in the trenches.  Jake Long would be the perfect person to start building the line.  He would also be invaluable to Croyle as somebody who determines whether or not he makes it in the league.

In the secondary, Ty Law is no longer a Chief, and Patrick Surtain has 11 years of wear-and-tear.  They need a cornerback, and they could take Aqib Talib with this pick.  Talib is looked at as the next defensive back to come in and dominate the NFL after his career at Kansas.

Well, that's it for this edition of NFL Draft Needs.  The Jets are going to be on the clock this Sunday.

I'm Joe W.