2011 NFL Draft First Round Review: AFC West

Denver Broncos: Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M (2nd overall)

Von Miller is the best edge rusher in the draft, and he has the speed and athleticism to cover running backs and tight ends effectively. The Broncos get the best linebacker in the draft, and a guy people are comparing to Derrick Thomas. Combine him with Elvis Dumervil off the edge, and the Broncos–at least on paper–have a fearsome looking pass rush.

San Diego Chargers: Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois (18th overall)

Liuget (pronounced Lee-jit) is a solid defensive line prospect with great explosiveness and quickness off the snap. I thought he was a better fit for a 4-3 defensive front, but the Chargers apparently feel he has the versatility they look for. He is a great pass rusher, which the Chargers crave, so he could turn out to be a solid pick.

Kansas City Chiefs: Jonathan Baldwin, WR, Pittsburgh (26th overall)

It was a huge day for the Kansas City Chiefs. They were not only able to trade down and acquire extra picks, but they got a big, speedy receiver to complement Dwayne Bowe on the outside. This is a value move for the Chiefs, who actually traded down to the 27th slot and were pushed ahead to 26 because the Baltimore Ravens missed their pick. I really like this pick for Kansas City (hate it as a Broncos fan) and think Scott Pioli is one of the best GM’s in the league. I can’t wait to see how they build off of this momentum.