2020 NFL Draft: Best pick in every round, from Jerry Jeudy to Geno Stone
By Lucas Schuh
Round 2: Willie Gay Jr., Kansas City Chiefs (No. 63)
The Kansas City Chiefs, far and away, have the best offense in the NFL with the likes of Tyreek Hill, Mitchell Schwartz, Travis Kelce and, obviously, Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs could have added another receiver to their roster in the draft but the real weakness was their defense.
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Adding almost anybody to the Kansas City defense in the first two days would have helped them. Ultimately, the Chiefs decided on a linebacker, Willie Gay Jr. Simply said, Gay has speed to burn. At the NFL Combine, Gay had one of the best weeks of any player. Gay finished the athletic testing with a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, 4.3-second 20-yard shuttle, 11-4 broad jump and a 39.5-inch vertical.
His athleticism also showed up on the field. While at Mississippi State, Gay looked like a modern-day linebacker. He looked incredible in coverage, locking down the middle of the field, and was also able to play in the slot against receivers. Gay can run down the field with speedy receivers and stay stride for stride with them
The NFL linebacker used to be a giant player who could stuff the run and play the gaps. But with the modern game turning towards the passing attack, linebackers need to be playable in coverage and that is exactly what Gay can do. Gay will bring a great coverage presence to the Chiefs and will match up very well with running backs and slot receivers.
Honorable Mentions: Michael Pittman Jr., Colts (No. 34) | Denzel Mims, Jets (No. 59)