Donald

Stephenson

Rotoworld draft guru Josh Norris’ 11th ranked tackle, Stephenson was a left tackle for the Sooners, but will be limited to swing duties behind Branden Albert and Eric Winston as a rookie, and perhaps for 2-3 years to come. He boasts excellent athleticism for a tackle, but has below-average strength. He’s currently more of an asset in the run game than passing attack. Clocking in at 6-foot-6, 312 pounds, the Chiefs may want him to add raw bulk as much as muscle.

Keep in mind this is a rookie camp, involving no veterans aside from tryout players. Branden Albert will be the Chiefs’ left tackle this season, but Stephenson represents long-term insurance for the contract-year starter. Kansas City is hoping Stephenson will emerge as a capable swing tackle in year one.

Stephenson worked at left tackle during rookie camp, and the Chiefs are projecting him as a swing tackle in his first season. Stephenson possesses left tackle length at 6-foot-6, 314 with 35 1/4-inch arms, and showed terrific athleticism with a 35 1/2-inch vertical and 4.98 forty at the Combine. Stephenson is a bit of a project, but he has the skill level of a future starter.

He’s also running with the second team at left tackle. A 2012 third-rounder, Stephenson’s path at tackle is currently blocked by Eric Fisher and Branden Albert. Stephenson played 377 snaps as a rookie, but got whipped in pass protection. Stephenson will be in the mix for swing-tackle duties. His 6-foot-6, 312-pound frame would be big for a guard.

Stephenson started seven games at right tackle last season, but is currently blocked by Eric Fisher and Branden Albert. The Chiefs view Stephenson as a potential upgrade over incumbent starter Jeff Allen in their zone blocking scheme. Jon Asamoah is locked into the starting right guard job.

Albert was having trouble moving his left shoulder and then went into the locker room. Backup Donald Stephenson came on and immediately had trouble keeping DeMarcus Ware in front of him. After two drives, Albert made his way back onto the field.

Fisher, the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s draft, left in the first half and was replaced by Donald Stephenson. The Chiefs didn’t miss Fisher, outscoring the Giants 21-0 in the second half.

Stephenson won’t play in the first preseason game. He’s competing to be the Chiefs’ starting left guard.

Fisher strained his groin during Tuesday’s practice and is sitting out Wednesday’s session. The good news for the Chiefs is that LT Branden Albert (knee) is expected back, meaning swing tackle Donald Stephenson could slide in on the right side. Fisher, the No. 1 overall pick in the draft, finished the regular season as Pro Football Focus’ No. 70 tackle among 76 qualifiers.

Fisher hurt his shoulder last week against the Broncos. Coach Andy Reid doesn’t believe the injury is a long-term concern. Donald Stephenson will get the start at right tackle in Week 12. Fisher, the No. 1 overall pick in April’s draft, has struggled mightily, giving up six sacks and 27 hurries in nine starts. Pro Football Focus grades him out as its No. 72 overall tackle.