The Chiefs traded up to select linebacker Jeffrey Bassa out of Oregon. A linebacker with good range, the 6-1, 232-pound Bassa adds to the Kansas City defensive depth. He’s a playmaker all over the field.

“He’s ready day one,” KC scout Jonathan Howard said of Bassa.

He says Bassa will fit in on defense but can help on special teams: “He’s a good football player, whether special teams or defense.”

The Chiefs were surprised to see him still available in the fifth round and expected him to go a round or two earlier. National scout Jonathan Howard said KC had its eye on him last year in case he declared early. Having seen Bassa work his way into Oregon’s rotation as a true freshman, the Chiefs love his confidence and IQ and feel confident he’ll make a quick transition to their defense.