With the Rookie Mini Camp concluded, the next phase of OTAs starts today in Kansas City. The Chiefs have been actively signing draft picks following an insightful early look at their rookie class. So, who has signed, and who stood out?
It’s starting to resemble football in Kansas City once more. Over the weekend, Head Coach Andy Reid and his staff evaluated the rookie class, including drafted and undrafted players. Meanwhile, Brett Veach has been busy signing some recent draft picks.
Three draft picks have been signed: first-round pick Josh Simmons (4 years, $14.675M), fifth-round pick Jeffrey Bassa (4 years, $4,61M), and seventh-round pick Brashard Smith (4 years, $4.33M).
The Chiefs also signed 16 undrafted free agents, highlighted by TE Jake Brinningstool (Clemson), WR Elijah Badger (Florida), Tackle Esa Pole (Washington State), LB Brandon George (Pittsburgh), DT Coziah Izzard (Penn State), and punter Eddie Czapliki (USC). Each player signed a three-year deal worth $3 million.
With the flurry of moves, including the release of several players, the Chiefs’ 90-man roster will begin its second OTA session today. It’s unclear which veterans will participate, but Patrick Mahomes has generally shown up for the non-mandatory practice.
If he attends, he’ll get his first look at his new left tackle (Simmons), wide receiver Jalen Royals (Utah State), and Smith. Each has a chance to play a significant role for the Chiefs this season.
Still, this past weekend’s focus was on the Chiefs’ recent draft class, and each player made an impression.
Josh Simmons participated in some drills over the weekend and appeared to be in tremendous shape. Of course, the patellar tendon will be the primary focus of his rehab, but he didn’t sit on the sidelines, which is a great sign. If he can elevate his workout and be at full speed in training camp, that would be a stroke of good fortune for the Chiefs.
Omarr Norman-Lott took repetitions at defensive tackle as he began learning Steve Spagnuolo’s complex defense. In speaking to reporters, he discussed the intricacies of the defense and defended how the Tennessee Vols utilized him last year. He was part of the rotation with a stacked defensive front, which will also be the case in Kansas City.
Ashton Gillotte displayed the fierce energy he’s known for at Louisville. Some were skeptical about his selection in the third round, but those concerns should be alleviated as summer camps open. He’s a perfect fit for the Chiefs’ defense, and I’m excited to see him and George Karlaftis coming off the edge.
Nohl Williams led Division One in interceptions last season. This past weekend, he showcased his range and playmaking ability. Granted, he’s in a difficult position with the current rules favoring offensive players, but he reminds me of former Chiefs player Albert Lewis. Cornerbacks coach Dave Merritt has something special in Williams.
From all accounts, Jalen Royals was a standout at the rookie mini-camp. Unconfirmed reports surfaced that he caught nearly every pass thrown his way. Furthermore, limited at the NFL combine while recovering from a foot injury, he looked good in drills. Mahomes will be excited about his first opportunity with the Utah State receiver.
Jeffrey Bassa appears to be a young man who can make an immediate impact in the NFL. He’s a side-to-side defender, but what stood out is his physical nature. In the limited video of him, what stood out was his physical prowess. Though he didn’t tackle another player, he understands how you tackle at the NFL level.
Brashard Smith might be fourth on the Chiefs’ depth chart at running back, but that could change quickly for the former SMU standout. He could become a three-down back, blessed with tremendous speed, a low center of gravity that enables him to break through tackles, and the ability to catch passes.
As for the undrafted class, Clemson tight end Jake Brinningstool stood out. Standing 6’6″ tall, he chose the Chiefs over three other NFL teams. He was sold on Kansas City after speaking with Andy Reid. From all accounts, his size, above-average speed, and pass-catching abilities give him the tools to become a solid option for Mahomes.
