D. J. Alexander to Kansas City Chiefs: Full Draft-Pick Breakdown

The Kansas City Chiefs kicked off their third round of the 2015 NFL draft by adding a developmental linebacker and prospective special teams contributor.

Former Oregon State linebacker D.J. Alexander definitely ins't the biggest defender in this draft class (6'2", 233 pounds), but he has good quickness (ran a 4.5-second 40-yard dash at his pro day) and is a high motor defender.

Alexander racked up 70 total tackles with 4.0 sacks and 12.0 tackles for a loss with Oregon State in 2014. This suggests he has good instincts and enough vision to see the field and find the ball-carrier after the snap.

The problem with Alexander, of course, is his slight build. At his size, he is almost more of an oversized safety than a linebacker. At the pro level, he will likely have to make the move from outside linebacker to inside.

Alexander's speed and he ability to close in on the ball-carrier are clearly his biggest assets and likely why the Chiefs decided to take a chance on him this high.

According to the Chiefs official website, Alexander played both linebacker and receiver at Palm Desert High School, California, and also ran track. He also broke the Palm Desert record in the 100 and 200 meters back in 2010. 

As Brandon Kiley of KTGR Sports Wire recently pointed out, Alexander's speed does give him value, especially on special teams:

The Kansas City Chiefs, it seems, agree. Kansas City scout Trey Koziol said the following of Alexander, per Adam Teicher of ESPN.com:

"

I think he’ll be a real impact player for us on coverage units from Day 1. This kid has outstanding speed. He’s got some rare physical traits just getting from point A to point B on the field. I just thought he was an explosive athlete who can really help us both at inside (linebacker) and special teams as well.

"

The importance of special teams players has taken a bit of a dive in recent years, but smart teams know that it is still an important part of the NFL game. If Alexander really does have the skills to develop into an elite special-teams contributor, then it makes sense for the Chiefs to give him an opportunity.

Kansas City clearly places a level of importance on its special teams. According to Pro Football Focus, the Chiefs special teams unit ranked fourth overall in 2014. Perhaps the addition of Alexander can keep that trend going.

Round 5 feels a bit early to go after a guy that may may be a special teams-only player in the NFL, but the Chiefs likely believe he can eventually develop into more. 

Alexander will almost certainly have to add some mass to his frame in order to see significant playing time at linebacker, but his speed and raw athleticism could allow him to find a rotational role, possibly as a pass-rusher.

Again, this pick feels like a little bit of a reach, but the Chiefs do not have a ton of glaring holes and can afford to take a chance on a developmental prospect.