STEVE SISNEY/The Oklahoman
If the Chiefs are waiting until the draft to find their solution at the left tackle position, I suspect that they’re going to want to trade up to get him and not wait until pick No. 31 (I’d be anxious to jump the Bengals at 28 and possibly even higher). That said, we’re staying away from trades until compensatory picks and the 2023 NFL draft order are finalized (soon). Now, on to our pick.
You’re going to see plenty of Chiefs media and draftniks swooning over Harrison (6-foot-4, 315 pounds, 34 1/8-inch arms) in the coming months and for good reason. He’s just 21 years old and loaded with promise and potential. He has eye-popping athleticism (showcased at the combine), impressive play strength and a very technical understanding of the game at such a young age. He gives defensive ends fits in pass protection, boasting great footwork and grip that helps him counter their every move.
If Harrison is the guy, I have little doubt that he can come in and be a successful left tackle either immediately or in the future. Maybe he starts on the right side with a veteran free agent acquisition filling in at left tackle for a year. Selecting him in the first round as opposed to a little later might simply come down to having that fifth-year option available. Five years of control is the perfect long-term solution at the left tackle spot given current financial restraints.
