With the loss of L’Jarius Sneed, the Kansas City Chiefs would inevitably go back into the draft pool to find his replacement. That’s precisely what they did in selecting Tennessee Cornerback Kamal Hadden in the sixth round.
Had it not been for a shoulder injury, Tennessee Vols Cornerback Kamal Hadden might not have lasted until the sixth round. At 6’1” and 196 pounds, his size and play are similar to L’Jarius Sneed.
He hurt his shoulder in a game against Alabama midway through the 2023 season, and his draft stock fell accordingly. However, Hadden appears ready to resume football activity, and I’m sure the Chiefs medical staff signed off on the selection.
Three years ago, the Chiefs drafted Vols Guard Trey Smith, who also had medical issues that chased away other NFL teams.
Hadden should be ready to go for training camp if there are no setbacks. He’ll be a valuable addition to the Chiefs’ secondary.
There isn’t much he can’t do as a defender. He had five interceptions over the last two seasons. He can play man and zone coverage, blitz the quarterback from the slot position, and is outstanding against the run.
Over the last three years, Brett Veach has added numerous secondary players on day three of the NFL draft. He kept that trend alive this year by grabbing Hadden, who, if healthy, can follow the same path as previous secondary players taken late in the draft process.
