This is a pivotal week on the draft calendar with the Senior Bowl and the East-West Shrine Game on tap for this week. A final chance to impress draft scouts in a game environment is the next big step toward the NFL draft, and a number of Penn State players are getting a chance to make a late impression. At the same time, draft gurus and mock draft experts are busy shuffling their rankings after reviewing the latest player measurements and breaking down practice film and highlights. And while all of that is going on, mock drafts are frantically being updated in light of NFL roster news, including the retirement of one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
As Tom Brady mentioned, it is time to let the other players shine and have their moments. Players have soared their way up draft boards after this season, including some notable Penn State players.
This week, we stay on the defensive side, as Pro Football Network has safety Jaquan Brisker heading to Kansas City with the 30th overall pick.
The Chiefs have struggled to find depth in their secondary over the past could seasons. However, this will be a crucial offseason for them, as they will potentially lose Tyrann Mathieu to free agency. Brisker would come in and fill the void here and be an immediate impact on a team continues to get younger in their secondary room. Matthieu plays with a ton of grit and physicality, and that is exactly what Brisker brings to the table.
As mentioned, the Chiefs are continuing to get younger in their secondary. Juan Thornhill is still on his rookie contract, and he has been a solid addition to their secondary. The first half of the season, the Chiefs struggled quite a bit. They didn’t really turn it on until week 10 against the Raiders. According to Pro Football Focus, Kansas City finished 6th in secondary rankings to end the season.
The Chiefs got hot the second half of the season. But, their inconsistency on defense should not go unnoticed. Their coverage grade went from a 54.8 the first five weeks of the regular season, to a 90.0 the rest of the season.
Brisker has soared his way up draft boards and made the biggest leap during the 2021 season. He would be an immense addition to a Chiefs secondary and would help with their struggles with consistency.
It’s worth noting that Brisker did opt out of the Senior Bowl, a month after opting out of Penn State’s bowl game.
Follow Nittany Lions Wire on Twitter and like us on Facebook for continuing Penn State coverage and discussion.
Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment on this story below. Join the conversation today.