Dee Ford celebrates a tackle against Missouri in the SEC Championship game.  (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images via Zimbio)

Dee Ford celebrates a tackle against Missouri in the SEC Championship game. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images via Zimbio)

The Kansas City Chiefs looked to fix their defensive issues that allowed Indianapolis to rally in the second half of their first round playoff game in January. Andy Reid and staff selected Auburn defensive tackle Dee Ford.

Here is NFL.com’s assessment of Ford’s abilities.

Very good acceleration and burst to beat blockers off the ball. Anticipates the snap very well and has a long second step. Plays with urgency and keeps working to the quarterback. Outstanding energy and work ethic.

The downside to Ford is that he’s considered, undersized and lacks strength to dig in against the run. Cannot convert speed to power and gets stalled if he cannot work half of a blocker. Not comfortable moving in reverse. Has consistently been dinged with injuries and has never made it through a full season healthy.

Reid said they are going to teach Ford to be an outside rushing linebacker similar to Tamba Hali.