2008 Kansas City Chiefs NFL Draft Needs

The Chiefs have performed much better on draft day since head coach Herm Edwards and vice president of player personnel Bill Kuharich arrived in town. Four players from the 2006 and 2007 drafts were starters last season and five other players from those drafts saw significant time. The Chiefs must rebuild their offensive line this season. With 10 total draft picks, don't be surprised if they use at least three on offensive lineman. Check out the 2008 Kansas City Chiefs NFL Draft needs below to see what other areas the Tomahawks will be addressing.

#1 Offensive Tackle

The Chiefs are looking to draft a left offensive tackle who can start as a rookie and be a staple up front for years to come. Michigan's Jake Long and Boise State's Ryan Clady will both be high on Kansas City's list early in round one.

#2 Cornerback

Kansas City must find a replacement for Ty Law. The five time Pro Bowler hit a wall last season and is unlikely to return. The Chiefs need to find a corner who can step right in and play either through the draft or free agency. Auburn's Patrick Lee would fit nicely with Kansas City's cover-2 defense.

#3 Offensive Guard

If Brian Waters moves to center, the Chiefs will need two starters at guard as John Melbourne struggled and likely won't be coming back. Clemson's Chris McDuffie might be Kansas City's best option here.

#4 Wide Receiver

The Chiefs came out smelling like roses with Dwayne Bowe, last year's first round pick. Bowe had a sensational rookie year and now the Chiefs will look to add a solid number two so that teams cannot key on him. Adding Florida's speedy Andre Caldwell would be a good move.

#5 Return Man

The Chiefs did not adjust to life without Dante Hall well at all. He was so vital in aiding Kansas City's field position and a threat to score every time he touched the ball. Kansas City may spend a draft pick on a return specialist. Don't be surprised if other teams try to find a return man also with the weapon that Devin Hester has created in Chicago.

#6 Quarterback

The Chiefs say they are committed to Brody Croyle, but if they had a chance to grab a franchise QB like Matt Ryan, it would be hard to pass. I don't believe Ryan will still be on the board, but the Chiefs could still take a guy like Delaware's Joe Flacco later in the draft to provide depth and competition for the young Croyle.

#7 Outside Linebacker

Donnie Edwards can still play, but he will turn 35 in April, so the Chiefs must think about getting a player they can groom here. Miami's Tavares Gooden has great speed and would be a quality selection.

Make sure you check out all of Jimmy Boyd's 2008 NFL Draft previews to see what direction your favorite NFL team might be headed in. Also check out our 2008 NFL Mock Draft to see how Jimmy sees the first round shaping up.

April 1st, 2008