AFC West Draft Recap

Denver Broncos:  Mike Shanahan has been looking for high-level talent along the defensive line for the past several years and always likes to build depth along the front four.  They’ve been limited by building around average talent upfront.  Jarvis Moss was the best opportunity for Shanahan to find a top edge rusher in awhile.  Moss has the athleticism to thrive in Jim Bates’ system, which allows ends to line up wide and get after quarterbacks.  They feel Moss could be their Jason Taylor.  Tim Crowder won’t be a flashy guy off the perimeter, but should develop into a solid starter at left end at some point. 

The wildcard is Marcus Thomas.  There were a lot of teams scared off by his past off-field issues.  Thomas has intriguing potential as a penetrator inside, but must prove he has the bulk and stamina to handle the disciplined role of occupying blockers to draw attention away from the edge rushers in Bates’ scheme.

A lot of people were up and down on Ryan Harris, but he should be a good fit in Denver’s zone blocking scheme.  Harris could develop into a starter early. 

Kansas City Chiefs: Dwayne Bowe has the opportunity to be a solid pick for the Chiefs.  They needed a young receiver with size and toughness.  If Bowe finds a comfort zone learning how to maximize his ability in the pro game, he should be a productive pass catcher for many years. 

The storyline to watch will be their two picks along the defensive line.  The Chiefs have been starving for better play from their interior for many years.  Tank Tyler will be a hit or miss who could tease the Chiefs.  He has the physical tools to become the strong interior presence they’ve lacked against the run, but must answer questions about his heart and desire.  Turk McBride has intriguing quickness inside.  Gunther Cunningham likes to have one interior guy who can penetrate.  McBride will likely see more time outside until Jared Allen returns from suspension. 

The biggest concern though for the Chiefs in terms of building through the draft is the offensive line.  After losing Will Shields and William Roaf in the past year, the Chiefs haven’t drafted any top talent to groom as building blocks to replace them. 

Oakland Raiders: The Raiders finally have a young quarterback they can build an identity around in JaMarcus Russell.  Russell has the same physical tools like Daunte Culpepper to push the ball downfield into the hands of the playmakers in Lane Kiffin’s scheme.  Unfortunately, Russell has the same leadership questions that others around the league have about Culpepper. 

Oakland may finally have a steady presence at tight end after years of trying to convert athletes into NFL tight ends.  Zach Miller should become a solid run blocker while providing a steady complement in the passing game.  Quentin Moses could add pass rush depth at defensive end. 

A lot of people will be watching Michael Bush as the general consensus is they got a steal.  Not so fast.  Bush has always been dogged with injury problems and isn’t a true power runner despite his size.  Bush could frustrate coaches like T.J. Duckett has during his NFL career.  I just question whether Bush has the temperament to become a true pro back. 

San Diego Chargers: Like many league scouts, I am not very excited about the Chargers’ draft.  Craig Davis has the speed to stretch the field, but lacks toughness.  Eric Weddle shows good football instincts and plays hard, but has some limitations.  He could become a starter if Ted Cottrell protects him from man coverage against most speed receivers. 

Anthony Waters was a nice pickup and should add depth at linebacker.  He could become a starter in a couple seasons inside because he’s very active. 

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