[Mr. Kotter]

The 2006 NFL Draft is here--finally. Next weekend, the Chiefs will launch the Herman Edwards era with, perhaps, the most important draft they have faced in several years. Every draft is important, but with an aging squad the Chief’s choices next weekend could be the difference between a long rebuilding process and a quick reloading and turn-around.

The Chiefs needs appear to be pretty clear: defensive line, defensive backfield, and wide receiver are the priorities, while depth on the offensive line and Quarterback-of-the-future (QBOTF) should also bear careful consideration. As they send several veterans to their retirements in the next year or two, there are replacements to be groomed in addition to the obvious upgrades they need at several positions.

The future direction of this franchise may very well be determined by the draft choices the Chiefs make next weekend. Edwards has a reputation for being a good judge of talent and had a couple of impressive drafts while head coach of the Jets. Ideally, the Chiefs would like to draft three solid defensive players on the first day. However, the lack of depth in this draft may mean they only get two players who can make contributions early in their careers. The Edwards Era in Chief history would get a major lift with a good draft. Here is hoping it’s a good one!

My two cents if I were in the war room, as if Herm or any of you really care…




My 2006 Mock Draft in brief:
1. (TRADE DOWN to later in Round One) Tamba Hali, DE Penn State
1.a. ALTERNATE PLAN: (Based on Availability: Antonio Cromartie or Ty Hill, if you insist on a CB)
2. Darnell Bing, S USC
3. Dusty Dvorcek, DT Oklahoma
3b. TRADE-DOWN compensation: Jason Avant, WR Michigan
5. Rashad Butler, OT Miami-FL
6. Rashaan Powers-Neal FB Notre Dame
6b. Best Available OG
7. Brad Smith, QB Missouri



I offered more detailed breakdown, here....

http://www.chiefsplanet.com/BB/showthread.php?t=139316