The best pick of the 2008 NFL Draft in my opinion.  He was viewed by most experts of the draft circle as the best player in this draft, but he fell into the KC's lap at #5.  In a run heavy division, the Chiefs now have a dominant DT commanding double teams and striking fear into opposing offensive coordinators heads.  This was not only a value pick for the Chiefs but also a need pick.  I really wish I could say more commending this pick, but anything more would just be repetitive.

Grade: A+

1. Brandon Albert, OT/OG, Virginia

The Chiefs traded back into the first round to select the versatile Albert. I'm never a fan of trading up into the first round, because I feel you lose value that way, but if it's to acquire the player a team really wants, then it is worth it.  Albert has great experience throughout the line starting 37 games for Virginia at left guard and left tackle.  He was a fast riser after the combine and was projecting by some to go top 10.  A solid pick for the Chiefs that will go a long way to retaining their dominant offensive line image of a few seasons ago.

Grade: A-

2. Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech

Flowers was at one point last year seen as the top CB prospect before slipping towards the end of the season and after a lackluster combine. The main knock was his 40 time(4.55) but many feel he plays faster than his time indicates.  Flowers should still be considered a slight steal ath pick 35 for the Chiefs.  He will be a welcome addition to an aging secondary.

Grade: A-

3. Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas

Charles was a solid pick for the Chiefs in the 3rd after falling to the second day due to durability and strength problems.  Charles comes from a long line of successful Texas runningbacks and should immediately come in and effectively back up Larry Johnson. Charles should also be a prime 4th quarter break away threat next season after leading the entire NCAA in 4th quarter rushing yards in 2007.  A great pick.

Grade: A-

3. Brad Cottam, TE, Tennessee

Cottam Towers over linebackers trying to cover him at 6-8.  He immediately becomes one of the tallest players in the league.  He also tested well in agility and speed drills(4.6 40).  Not a good blocker and will have to be taken out in running situations.  However, the main reason I'm not too fond of this pick is his lack of playing time.  He started only 10 games in 5 years with the Vols.  With proper coaching, he could be groomed to be the eventual replacement of Tony Gonzalez.

Grade: C

3. DaJuan Morgan, S, NC State

Morgan was a very highly ranked safety with one projection even having him go in the tail end of the first to the super bowl champion New York Giants.  However, many safeties fell and Morgan fell along with them.  Morgan is only a one year starter and is still quite raw but has the athleticism and measurables to oen day be a starter.  Will make a strong mark on special teams in the meantime.

Grade: B

4. Will Franklin, WR, Missouri

A very good receiver from one of the best air attacks in college football last season.  Franklin tested very well, running a 4.3 40.  He has a good size and should provide some nice depth next season for the Chiefs.  Good value, as he was projected to go late 3rd.

Grade: B-

5. Brandon Carr, CB,Grand Valley State

Another small school corner.  Carr has good size and great athleticism but really lacks a natural feel for the game.  Chiefs would've been better off drafting a more known experienced corner here.

Grade: C-

6. Barry Richardson, OT, Clemson

A OT with great size at 6-7 and experience playing at a big time program.  Lacks ideal athleticism and will probably end up at guard. Is said to lack passion, a big worry to me.

Grade: D

6. Kevin Robinson, WR/KR, Utah State

The nation's leading returner last season will look to make his mark on special teams in a place where Dante Hall lead the league wide resurrection of the oft overlooked sector of the game.

Grade: B

7. Brian Johnston, DE, Gardner-Webb

End with good size but lacks much big game experience. Faces an uphill battle at making the team.

Grade: C-

7. Mike Merritt, TE, Central Florida

Great blocking tight end that couldn't catch a ball with velcro on his hands. Will be great for running formations requiring an extra blocker but won't feel anyone as a receiver.

Grade: C+

Overall:

The Chiefs had a fantastic first 3 rounds addressing needs, picking up tons of future starters, and obtaining great value.  I think they had a pretty questionable last 4 rounds, picking up what I feel will only amount to one impact player, but I think they picked up 4 maybe 5 starters in the first 3 rounds.  They got it done where it really counts, and this draft should inject KC with much needed talent and enthusiasm.  They should be back as an AFC West contender in the next few seasons.

Grade: A-