That Kansas City chiefs have made their next selection!
With the 103rd overall pick in the third round, the Chiefs brought in Wisconsin linebacker Leo Chenal. We have insta notes from the three members of the Arrowhead Pride Draft Team.
Ron: The Chiefs really built their defense with starters and key role players – and that continued with the selection of Chenal. In terms of value, it’s an absolute bargain. He could have been a legitimate choice at 62. At 103, that’s insane.
He’ll be the third linebacker right away, playing the SAM position on base defense and giving the Chiefs someone strong against the run whether he’s off the ball or on the line of scrimmage. He can also be an effective pass rusher just because of his strong hands and athleticism. he has a RAS of 9.99.
He has the potential to be a very good off-ball linebacker against the run. He and Nick Bolton will be sluggers against opposing runs.
Class: A
Bryan: The Chiefs have now solidified their starting linebacker set with Chenal, who could very well play the SAM (strong side) linebacker position. No, he’s not a one-for-one replacement for Ben Niemann. Still, the selection could indicate that the team is taking a whole new direction at linebacker.
With Nick Bolton, Willie Gay – and now Chenal – the Chiefs have an enormously tough, physical group of linebackers that will make playing football against them a challenge. More importantly, they now have solidified depth at the position – similar to other spots on the defense.
Class: B+
Claw: The need for a linebacker wasn’t great, but the need was there. Chenal could be defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s third linebacker on defense. With Nick Bolton and Willie Gay already solidifying the space, Chenal can come in and do what he does best: stop the run. As a stalky prototypical “old school” knocker, Chenal is of great value at Pick 103. He won’t be on the field for every single replay, but he’ll earn enough playing time to justify that pick. Brett Veach is a solid choice.
Class: B+