NFL MOCK DRAFT- AFC WEST
2023-04-20 · 2 min read · NFL/Football
Sportskeeda via Getty Images | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics
There were rumblings that this might be the toughest division to call at the beginning of 2022, but in the end, the Kansas City Chiefs proved that they are still the kings of the AFC West.
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Three of the four head coaches in this division have a Super Bowl ring, which shows these teams have an eye for talent, and while all four are set at the quarterbacking position, there are still some valuable youngsters in the draft who could make an impact next season.
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Here are my projected top selections for all four AFC West teams.
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Las Vegas Raiders- Round 1- #7- Devon Witherspoon- Cornerback- Illinois
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Even the addition of Jimmy G might have the Raiders thinking about drafting a quarterback at #7, as the ex-Niners pivot might not have much time left in his career.
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That being said, though, the NFL is a passing league, and that’s especially the case in the AFC West with the likes of Kansas City and LA dominant in that department, while Josh McDaniels needs some ballhawks who are skilled in the cover game, in order for his team to be competitive next season.
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A 2022 Senior Bowl All-American, Devon Witherspoon was one of three finalists for the Thorpe Award last year and for a good reason, as his length and foot speed made life difficult for opposing receivers.
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Witherspoon was one of the top-rated corners in the college this past season, as he showed an outstanding ability to read routes and anticipate throws.
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Los Angeles Chargers- Round 1- #21- Jordan Addison- Wide Receiver- USC
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Kennan Allen can’t play forever, and Justin Herbert could use a speedy weapon to compliment what is already a solid receiving corp.
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A 2021 consensus All-American, Addison had 100 catches for 1,593 yards that year and was tied for the most touchdown grabs in the nation (17).
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His ability to locate and track deep passes could make him a huge asset in the Chargers’ vertical game, while Addison has done an excellent job at finding those holes in coverage.
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Addison can still be surprisingly physical while having an outstanding cut and terrific hands for someone as fast as he is.
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Kansas City Chiefs- Round 1- #31- Jalin Hyatt- Wide Receiver- Tennessee
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The Super Bowl champs showed last year they didn’t need Tyreek Hill to dominate offensively, but it won’t hurt to go after a speedy receiver in this year’s draft.
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Not only does Hyatt have lightning-quick speed, but his long arms allow him to play bigger than his size, while he’s got initial elite quickness off the line of scrimmage.
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He’s a fantastic route runner and an excellent pass blocker, and if he’s available, there’s no reason why the Chiefs wouldn’t want someone like him, as he appears to be NFL-ready.
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Denver Broncos- Round 3- #67- Derick Hall- Linebacker- Auburn
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Sean Payton loves some big boys who can hit, and Derick Hall is as tough as they come, with a strong core and powerful hands that can shed blockers effectively.
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He has tremendous athletic ability, is a solid pass rusher, and can locate the ball quickly.
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Hall plays with excellent balance, can shift his momentum quickly and has a solid change of direction.
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His classic frame, backside pursuit, and balance could make him a great addition to Broncos Country.
By: Joel Lefevre
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