Chiefs Draft Prospects Shine in BCS Championship

A player is not just measured by their physical ability or capacity to learn. Scouts search for (and if they don't, they should) that crucial "clutch" player—the ones who phrases like "Grace Under Fire" are used to describe.

Since Kansas City is sporting more and more of a "New England" look, these two examples are oddly appropriate.

I still remember the day, even the exact play, where I became a true believer in Tom Brady. It was a Monday night game against Denver in 2003. New England was in the red zone at Mile High, and Brady dropped back to pass. 

In moments, the pocket looked more like a street brawl. Brady looked like he stood in the eye of a hurricane, and, seemingly oblivious to the carnage around him, launched a rocket of a pass to a receiver in the back of the end zone.

As for that other example, I only need two words: Adam Vinatieri. I mean, seriously, the guy's picture should be in the dictionary under the word "clutch".

Fortunately for scouts, each college season provides the perfect scenario to judge a player's cool when the pressure is on with bowl games—and last night's game showcased a couple of players the Kansas City Chiefs should pay close attention to come April.

Mike Johnson, Offensive Guard, Alabama

Already considered to be one of the top guards coming into the draft, Johnson was essential in opening holes for Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson. 

Despite losing 2008 Outland Trophy winner Andre Smith to the NFL Draft last year, Johnson and his teammates were able to elevate their play—tallying up 3,011 yards on the ground, with Ingram boasting 6.1 yards-per-carry and 17 touchdowns. 

Should Kansas City feel confident with Branden Albert at left tackle following the second half of the season, and decide to move Brian Waters to center, Johnson might find a home in the starting left guard position, should the Chiefs find him available in the middle of the second round (courtesy of the Tony Gonzalez trade to Atlanta last year).

Jordan Shipley, Wide Receiver, Texas

Originally, I was in favor of using both second round picks on the offensive line, but Shipley's performance last night was too enticing to ignore.

Despite losing quarterback Colt McCoy in the first quarter, freshman backup Garrett Gilbert paired up with Shipley in the second half to rally Texas to within three points of Alabama following a 24-6 deficit at halftime. 

When all was said and done, Shipley finished the night with 10 receptions for 122 yards and two touchdowns, working mostly out of the slot position. Shipley might have played his way into a late first round draft slot, but if he should drop into the second round Kansas City should be willing to welcome this Texas product with open arms. 

A dangerous slot receiver to pair with incumbents Dwayne Bowe and Chris Chambers could be just the weapon the Chiefs front office is looking for to complete their high-powered offensive scheme.

Making the transition to playoff-caliber is difficult, especially for a team who cannot even make the claim of mediocrity. The Chiefs combined 10-38 record over the last three years will take a number of changes to overcome, and a number of years for fans to forget. 

Make no mistake, though: the Chiefs are on the road to recovery, and once Kansas City finds itself in games where "clutch" players are needed again, Shipley and Johnson should be people that can be counted on when it matters most.