With the Draft quickly approaching, many analysts have created mock drafts to predict who will go where. In a recent two-round mock draft by ESPN analysts Mel Kiper Jr. and Todd McShay, the Chiefs selected Notre-Dame quarterback Deshone Kizer. Kizer, a 6’4”, 233 lb prospect, is a solid deep threat.
However, Kizer has received scrutiny for consistency issues, where his accuracy has decreased. When he plays to his strengths, however, Kizer is a mobile signal caller who can deliver deep bombs. Enter Alex Smith and the Kansas City Chiefs.
DeShone Kizer Would Be A Strong Fit Behind Alex Smith
Alex Smith arrived in Kansas City in 2013, and has been a consistent quarterback for the organization. While he hasn’t delivered frequent deep passes, he has consistently protected the ball, won games, and with the exception of last season, shows wheels. Smith could be the perfect mentor for Kizer.
As a veteran, Smith can groom Kizer into the future of the Kansas City Chiefs. While receiving a full season to adapt to the NFL system, Kizer can correct his deficiencies while reinforcing his strengths.
Historically, the Chiefs have gone with veteran quarterbacks traded from other teams. The time has come for the Chiefs to draft their own franchise quarterback who can play successfully at an NFL level. Kizer has strong potential to be their man, and the time is right with Smith playing the 2017 season.
The Chiefs drafted Kevin Hogan last year, who was later released and sent to the Cleveland Browns. The Chiefs have also had backups Chase Daniel and Tyler Bray. However, Bray has yet to start a regular season game, and Daniel was sent last year to the Philadelphia Eagles, and is now on his way to New Orleans.
Playing Ability
Kizer is a talented player, and it would be wise for the Chiefs to do what it takes to get him. In college, he had 45 total touchdown to 18 total interceptions, while also rushing for 17 touchdowns. Kizer is able to remain cool in the pocket and deliver a deep ball that can keep defenses on their heels.
Like Smith, he can make defenses think twice before blitzing, and regret giving him too much room to run. As a dual- threat quarterback, Kizer can join Travis Kelce, Jeremy Maclin, Tyreek Hill, and Spencer Ware, to form a suddenly potent offense.
A common phrase thrown around while talking about Tony Romo and Houston was “Super Bowl quality”. With a championship level defense, the Houston Texans only need a quarterback to ascend to greatness. However, the Kansas City Chiefs are just the same. With a championship level defense, it may take a player like Deshone Kizer to get the ring.
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