2011 NFL Mock Draft: Kansas City Chiefs Gamble on Vrabel Replacement in Ayers

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

In the 2011 NFL Mock Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs select UCLA linebacker Akeem Ayers with the No. 21 pick in the first round.

While Mike Vrabel is running into gambling issues at casinos, the Chiefs need to find someone who can replace him. Now I know that the casino issue seems to be a bit of an understanding, but the truth remains that Vrabel is getting up there in playing years now, and will not have much left going forward.

The future of the Chiefs is now, and it all begins with the drafting of Ayers.

Many have him sliding down draft boards following a somewhat weak combine, but his pro day got some teams back on board with Ayers. He is built like a strong side linebacker, yet has phenomenal speed for someone his size. He is very durable, a hard worker and possess a solid character. He is just what the Chiefs could use in their front seven for years to come.

ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. also believes that Ayers would make for an excellent draft pick by the Chiefs with the No. 21 selection.

"Ayers surprised a lot of people with some mediocre workouts at the combine, given his reputation for athleticism, but he bounced back at his pro day," writes Kiper. "And as I've said before, the tape doesn't lie. This is a guy with the range of skills to help a team early. A good fit on the edge in the Chiefs' system, Ayers fills an obvious need at outside linebacker in the 3-4 and isn't just a pass-rusher. More in the Mike Vrabel mold, he can cover, rush and tackle well against the run."

Kansas City is a young team who is headed in the right direction under the guidance of head coach Todd Haley. But there has to be at least some concern that the team could take a step backward before advancing to the next level. But by solidifying the defense for the future, they could ensure that they are a playoff contender for many years to come.

Ayers would be another step in the right direction.

If the Chiefs do decide to go another route, expect to hear the name of either Gabe Carimi (Wisconsin), Torrey Smith (Maryland), Mike Pouncey (Florida), Nate Solder (Colorado), Phil Taylor (Baylor) or Anthoy Castonzo (Boston College).

For more on what type of help the Chiefs could look to get in two weeks, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Contributor Taylor Green, who takes a look at the 2011 NFL Mock Draft: Kansas City Chiefs 7-Round Mock Draft.

Most recent updates:

Flag

Props (0)