After the breakthrough season that Tamba Hali enjoyed, one of the primary needs identified for the Kansas City Chiefs has been a counterpart on the opposite side. Consider that need filled, at least to some degree, with the addition of third round choice Justin Houston.
Houston has 19 career sacks, including 10 last season, and has been a consistent force against opposing quarterbacks two straight seasons. The National Football Post’s Wes Bunting describes Houston like the following:
An explosive pass rusher who has been productive in the SEC the past two seasons and knows how to consistently threaten the corner. Has the fluidity to develop a counter move, but needs some time. Looks like a potential impact-caliber pass rusher at the next level.
The Chiefs have added a prime talent at a surprisingly low position, and some question his ability to be a three-down linebacker. He also likes to play with his hand on the ground, so some teams wondered where exactly to play him — at linebacker or end. With Mike Vrabel’s age and recent legal run-in, finding a replacement was inevitable. Paired with Andy Studebaker, the Chiefs now have a strength at outside linebacker.