Andy Reid and his coaching staff were able to get a close look at the Chiefs’ latest draft picks during the rookie minicamp, which ended yesterday.
The rookies, both drafted and undrafted, converged on the training field and participated in a variety of practice activities. Furthermore, the three-day training regimen has opened the newcomers’ eyes to the standards and lifestyle that they are expected to maintain.
Despite the fact that the drills were non-contact due to the lack of padding, the athletes were able to demonstrate their skills to enthusiastic onlookers.
Hunter Nourzad, a third-round draftee, participated in the Chiefs’ recent rookie minicamp and aimed to make an impression.
Furthermore, the rookie out of Penn State hopes to make the Chiefs squad and might be a rotational element.
During his college career, the 23-year-old was a versatile offensive lineman who played left guard, right tackle, and center.
He finished college as the starting center at Penn State and will provide valuable depth for All-Pro Creed Humphrey.
The Chiefs rookie offensive guard compared his playing to Trent Williams.
Furthermore, the rookie has based his game after one of the Chiefs’ most recent Super Bowl victims, Trent Williams.
During an interview with Damond Talbot, owner of the NFL Draft Diamonds, Nourzad was asked who he would compare himself to in the NFL.
“I think that Trent Williams’ play in the NFL translates to my play in the Ivy League,” he responded.
“He has finesse and discipline in the passing game, can drive a down lineman with power, but also prides himself on being able to get in the open field on screens, being an athlete, and keeping up with the receiver or back.”
The Chiefs’ hybrid O-Lineman believes he has a similar gameplan to Trent Williams, an 11-time Pro Bowler with the San Francisco 49ers.
Williams is one of the most athletic players in the NFL at the veteran age.
At 35 years old, Williams is one of the league’s most athletic linemen. He possesses the physical power to overwhelm the opposing pass rusher and can control the movement of defenders to create space for his running backs.
Furthermore, his actual agility is shown when he sweeps about on screenplays to block linebackers and defensive backs.
Screenplays could be where the Chiefs want to use Nourzad, as his reps will be evaluated and developed during his rookie season.
If the rookie can approach Trent Williams’ level of success, he will be remembered as the best draft steal in 2024.
However, if the hopeful rookie wants to achieve even half of Williams’ status, he would have a difficult task ahead of him.
The four-time All-Pro is still going strong as he nears the end of his long career, having spent 14 years in the NFL with the Washington Commanders and the 49ers.