2019 NFL Mock Draft: Projected first round after college football season

RB is far from the Chiefs’ top need. The Chiefs have been the best team in the NFL this season per DVOA thanks to likely league MVP Patrick Mahomes, but if they come up short of a Super Bowl run it will be because of their below average defense. They’ll be looking for upgrades at every level of the defense this offseason, and that’s the logical choice for their first round pick.

But I am completely enamored by the fit of Alabama RB Josh Jacobs in Kansas City. He doesn’t have the game-changing speed of Kareem Hunt, but his versatility as a shifty, powerful runner to go along with outstanding receiving skills, makes him a perfect fit in Andy Reid’s offense.

Jacobs often played second and even third fiddle for Alabama during his three years, but he’s the best pro prospect at the position among draft eligible players this season. He’s the modern NFL running back with his ability to run between the tackles, pick up blocks, and make plays as a receiver.

Jacobs helped his draft stock further with a pair of superb performances in the College Football Playoff against Oklahoma and Clemson, with the Orange Bowl against his home state Sooners serving as a coming-out party for those unaware of his ridiculous skill-set.

Jacobs, along with Iowa State’s David Montgomery, would make sense here for the Chiefs if they decide to eschew their defensive needs to add another weapon to their offense.

If they go defense, Ohio State’s Dre’Mont Jones would be an intriguing option while being great value this late in the first round.