Kansas City Chiefs' 2014 Draft: Key Picks & Analysis

Hey guys, let's take a trip down memory lane and dive deep into the Kansas City Chiefs' 2014 draft picks. The NFL Draft is always a pivotal moment for any franchise, and 2014 was no exception for the Chiefs. This draft class was particularly interesting because it came after a somewhat disappointing 2013 season where the team finished 2-14. The pressure was on to find foundational pieces and impact players who could help turn the franchise around. General Manager John Dorsey and Head Coach Andy Reid were tasked with rebuilding and injecting new talent into the roster. They had a relatively high pick in the first round, which, as we all know, is a prime opportunity to land a potential superstar. The Chiefs were picking at #23 overall in the first round, and the anticipation was palpable. Every draft pick is a gamble, but some picks just have that extra weight, especially when they come early in the draft. The team needed help on both sides of the ball, so the decision-makers had a lot of avenues to explore. Were they looking for a defensive anchor, a game-changing offensive weapon, or perhaps someone to bolster the offensive line? The beauty of the draft is the unknown, the potential that each player brings. Fans eagerly watched, hoping for selections that would not only fill immediate needs but also have long-term ramifications for the team's success. This 2014 class would ultimately be judged by the contributions of these young men, and it’s fascinating to look back and see how it all played out for the Chiefs kingdom.

First Round: Dee Ford - EDGE

The Kansas City Chiefs kicked off their 2014 NFL Draft by selecting Dee Ford, an outside linebacker/defensive end from Auburn, with the 23rd overall pick. This was a big move, and you could feel the excitement building around this pick. Ford was known for his incredible athleticism, speed, and pass-rushing ability. He had a phenomenal senior season at Auburn, racking up 10.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss, earning him First-Team All-SEC honors. The Chiefs were clearly looking to bolster their pass rush, an area that always needs attention in the NFL. With established veterans on the defensive line, the idea was that Ford could come in and develop into a premier pass rusher, providing a much-needed spark to get after opposing quarterbacks. The expectation was that he would provide a dynamic threat off the edge, forcing offensive tackles into difficult situations and disrupting the pocket. His speed and agility were supposed to make him a nightmare for offensive linemen trying to contain him. Many analysts praised the pick, highlighting his raw talent and potential to become a dominant force. However, as is often the case with high draft picks, there were also questions about his consistency and durability. Despite these concerns, the Chiefs brass saw enough in his physical tools and pass-rush moves to believe he could be a cornerstone of their defense for years to come. Landing a player with that kind of explosiveness in the first round is always a goal, and Ford certainly possessed that in spades. The hope was that he would be able to transition smoothly to the professional level and make an immediate impact. The Chiefs faithful were certainly hoping for a home run selection here, someone who could make the defense even more formidable. It was a high-stakes decision, and the team clearly believed Dee Ford had the ceiling to justify the investment.

Second Round: Phillip Gaines - CB

Moving into the second round, the Chiefs addressed the defensive backfield by selecting Phillip Gaines, a cornerback from Vanderbilt, with the 87th overall pick. This was another crucial pick, as teams are always looking to strengthen their secondary. Gaines was a solid college player known for his physicality and ball-hawking skills. At Vanderbilt, he was a reliable starter, contributing to a strong defensive unit. The Chiefs needed to add depth and talent at the cornerback position, and Gaines seemed like a good fit. He had the size and the toughness that coaches look for in a cornerback, and his college production suggested he could compete at the NFL level. The hope was that he would provide competition for playing time and potentially develop into a starting-caliber player. In the NFL, having strong cornerbacks is absolutely essential for shutting down opposing receivers and preventing big plays. Gaines was seen as a player who could potentially develop into a lockdown corner or at least a very reliable contributor in coverage. He brought a physical presence to the position, which is always appreciated by defensive coordinators. The idea behind drafting a player like Gaines in the second round is to find someone who can contribute relatively quickly and potentially grow into a more significant role. It's about finding value and adding pieces to a puzzle. While he might not have had the immediate star power of a top-10 pick, players like Gaines are the backbone of a successful defense. They provide the depth and the solid play that allows the more heralded players to shine. The Chiefs were clearly trying to build a complete defense, and adding a physical cornerback like Gaines was a logical step in that process. Everyone hoped he could step in and make a difference, contributing to the team's defensive efforts and helping to solidify the secondary for the upcoming seasons.

Third Round: Aaron Murray - QB

In the third round, with the 100th overall pick, the Kansas City Chiefs made a somewhat surprising selection, taking Aaron Murray, a quarterback from Georgia. This pick definitely raised some eyebrows. Murray was a prolific passer in college, setting SEC records for passing yards and touchdowns. He was known for his accuracy, his leadership, and his ability to dissect defenses. However, there were also questions about his arm strength and his size, which are often significant factors for NFL quarterbacks. The Chiefs already had Alex Smith as their starting quarterback, and they had drafted a promising young backup in Tyler Bray the year before. So, the selection of Murray indicated a few things: perhaps they saw him as a long-term project, a potential future starter if Smith's tenure ended, or a valuable developmental piece. It's not uncommon for teams to draft quarterbacks even when they have a starter, looking to build depth and competition for the future. Murray's college resume was impressive, and his accuracy was lauded. The potential upside was clear; if he could overcome the perceived limitations in arm strength and size, he could become a very capable NFL quarterback. For the Chiefs, it was a chance to invest in a position that is arguably the most important in all of sports. Even if he didn't become the franchise QB, having a talented backup quarterback is invaluable. The coaching staff, led by Andy Reid, likely saw the potential for Murray to learn and grow within their system. They might have believed that with the right coaching and development, he could maximize his potential. It was a strategic move, perhaps looking to the future and securing a quarterback with a proven track record of success in a tough conference like the SEC. Fans were intrigued, wondering what the long-term plan was for this promising, albeit somewhat debated, signal-caller.

Fourth Round: De'Anthony Thomas - WR/RB

The Chiefs continued to add offensive firepower in the fourth round, selecting De'Anthony Thomas, a versatile playmaker from Oregon, with the 124th overall pick. Thomas was an electrifying player in college, known for his blazing speed, elusiveness, and ability to contribute as both a wide receiver and a running back. He was a threat in space and a dangerous return specialist. This pick suggested the Chiefs were looking to add speed and playmaking ability to their offense, something that can create mismatches and open up the playbook. Thomas possessed game-breaking speed, the kind that can turn a simple screen pass or a jet sweep into a touchdown. His versatility was also a huge plus; he could line up in the slot, take handoffs, or even be used on special teams. In an era where offenses are increasingly looking for dynamic players who can do multiple things, Thomas fit the mold perfectly. The hope was that he could bring that explosive element to the Chiefs' offense, providing big-play potential every time he touched the ball. He was seen as a player who could be used in a variety of ways to stress opposing defenses. Whether it was stretching the field vertically, gaining yards after the catch, or taking the top off coverage, Thomas offered a unique set of skills. The Chiefs were looking for players who could make an impact beyond just being a traditional receiver or running back, and Thomas embodied that. His speed was undeniable, and his ability to change direction on a dime made him a difficult player to tackle in the open field. This was a selection aimed at adding a spark, someone who could bring excitement and big plays to Arrowhead. The fans were eager to see what this speedy playmaker could do in a Chiefs uniform.

Fifth Round: Laurent Duvernay-Tardif - OL

In the fifth round, at pick #200, the Kansas City Chiefs made a selection that would become one of the most unique and ultimately successful stories of this draft class: Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, an offensive lineman from McGill University in Canada. This pick was certainly a bit of a wildcard. Duvernay-Tardif, or LDT as he became known, was an exceptional athlete playing at a Canadian university, which is not typically a pipeline for NFL talent. What stood out about him were his incredible physical tools – size, strength, and athleticism – along with a sharp mind. He was pursuing a medical degree while playing football, which spoke volumes about his intelligence and work ethic. The Chiefs took a chance on his raw potential and his impressive physical profile, believing that his athletic ability and determination could translate to the NFL level. Many questioned the decision to draft a player from a non-US college system, but the Chiefs' scouting department saw something special. They were willing to look beyond the traditional scouting grounds to find talent. LDT's journey from McGill to becoming a Super Bowl-winning offensive lineman is a testament to his dedication and the Chiefs' ability to identify potential. He had to prove himself against tougher competition, and he did, eventually becoming a reliable starter and a fan favorite. This pick exemplifies the idea that talent can be found anywhere if you're willing to look. It also highlights the importance of physical attributes and a strong work ethic in developing NFL players. The Chiefs made a bet on raw potential and an exceptional individual, and it paid off handsomely. His story is a feel-good narrative that resonates throughout the league and certainly within Chiefs Kingdom.

Later Rounds and Undrafted Free Agents

Beyond the headline picks, the Chiefs continued to build their roster through the later rounds and by signing undrafted free agents. These late-round selections and undrafted gems are often crucial for adding depth and finding hidden talent that can contribute to the team. While not every player selected in the later rounds makes a significant impact, these are the players who often develop into valuable role players or even starters over time. Teams like the Chiefs understand that the draft is not just about the first few rounds; it's about finding value throughout the entire process. Undrafted free agency is another massive opportunity to fill out the roster with players who might have slipped through the cracks or who possess specific skills that a team needs. Often, players who sign as undrafted free agents work hard to prove themselves and can become vital contributors, earning their spots through sheer determination and performance. Looking back at the 2014 class, it's important to remember that the success of a draft isn't solely determined by the early picks. It's about the collective contribution of all the players signed, developed, and integrated into the team. These later-round picks and undrafted signings represent the heart and soul of roster building, where perseverance and opportunity often lead to unexpected successes. The Chiefs were active in these areas, aiming to unearth players who could potentially surprise and contribute to the team's long-term goals. It's a crucial part of building a competitive NFL team, ensuring there's a steady stream of talent ready to step up when needed.

Overall Impact and Conclusion

Reflecting on the Kansas City Chiefs' 2014 draft picks, it's clear that this was a draft with a mix of hits and misses, but ultimately, it laid some groundwork for future success. Dee Ford, the first-round pick, showed flashes of brilliance as a pass rusher but struggled with consistency and injuries throughout his tenure, eventually being traded. However, his potential was undeniable, and he did contribute at times. Phillip Gaines provided depth at cornerback and had some solid moments but ultimately didn't become the long-term starter the team might have hoped for. Aaron Murray represented a developmental quarterback pick, and while he never materialized into a starting QB for the Chiefs, he served as a backup and developmental piece. The standout success story from this draft, arguably, is Laurent Duvernay-Tardif. His journey from a Canadian university to becoming a Super Bowl-winning offensive lineman is remarkable and showcases the Chiefs' ability to find hidden gems and develop talent. De'Anthony Thomas brought speed and versatility but his impact was somewhat limited. The true value of a draft class often unfolds over several years, and the 2014 class for the Chiefs was no different. It provided players who contributed in various capacities, helped build depth, and included a player who became a vital part of a championship offensive line. While not every pick was a home run, the 2014 draft was a crucial step in the team's rebuild, bringing in players who, in their own ways, contributed to the journey towards sustained success under Andy Reid and the front office. It reminds us that evaluating drafts requires patience and a long-term perspective, as player development and team needs evolve over time.