Denver Broncos: The most impressive undrafted rookies in the AFC West
Ben Niemann, LB, Kansas City Chiefs
In a league starved for linebackers capable of playing well in coverage, it doesn’t seem fair that Iowa Hawkeyes linebacker Ben Niemann would go undrafted.
Yet, that’s exactly what happened.
The Hawkeyes had a phenomenal trio of ‘backers over the past few seasons led by Josey Jewell, who is currently balling out for the Denver Broncos, along with Bo Bower, who is getting a shot in Denver, too.
Niemann is the only one of the Hawkeye trio who decided to wear ‘enemy’ colors and play for the Chiefs, but he’s in a great situation and making the most of it.
He led the Chiefs in their first preseason game with five tackles, and had another five tackles in their second preseason game along with a pass breakup and an interception for a touchdown.
Niemann was a really interesting player at Iowa, staying on the field in what should have been their ‘sub’ package. Most of Iowa’s defense stayed the same throughout every game they played, and Niemann would actually take on the role of nickel defensive back when Iowa would face three-wide sets.
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This guy is good in coverage.
The Chiefs may have a gem on their hands and he’s proving it rather quickly.