The latest mock draft is out from Walter Cherepinsky for the 2012 NFL Draft and the Kansas City Chiefs find themselves the recipients of a great value on draft boards at their top position of need at right tackle. Riley Reiff is a known commodity who most draft evaluators love for his technique and ability and pedigree from the University of Iowa under Kirk Ferentz. It's something that Scott Pioli knows well, so this would be a nice pick for the team.
He writes, "Right tackle Barry Richardson is a sieve in pass protection. Jared Gaither was foolishly waived (typical dumb Todd Haley move), so Kansas City will be looking for an upgrade at the position. It'll also want some insurance for Branden Albert, who will be a free agent a year from now. This is an easy pick because Riley Reiff is the top player available who fills a big need. This is the first time I've had Reiff out of my top 10 in 17 weeks, but his short arms could cost him."
The upcoming free agency of Albert is not something that comes up very often, but it is something to think about. The team already has holes along its line, so it can ill afford to let another good player go. The team felt the loss of Brian Waters last season to the Patriots, so it's not surprising to see them going offensive tackle early in the 2012 draft.
Check out more about the Chiefs draft plans over at Arrowhead Pride.