04/30/2012 - A closer look at the Chiefs picks: Round 5/146 - DeQuan Menzie, CB, 6-0, 198, Alabama...As part of the national championship Crimson Tide defense, Menzie played the opposite cornerback spot from Dre Kirkpatrick. The junior-college transfer has the type of skills where he could play both safety positions and head's up on the slot receiver. - The Sports Xchange
Menzie is a bit of a cornerback-safety tweener with only average size, speed and length, but gets the most out of his ability and works hard to improve his game -- lacks starting talent because of his limitations in coverage, but has some potential in a press zone scheme. He is aggressive in run support with a physical mentality, but struggles to break down in space and leaves production on the field.
Analysis
Positives: A versatile and flexible athlete with good foot quickness. Started 20 games the last two years, lining up inside and outside. Tough and scrappy with the forceful nature to be physical at all levels of the field. Has good bulk on his frame to be aggressive in run support. Strong hands to make plays on the ball, effective blitzer who shows well-coached technique and awareness.
Negatives: Has below-average measureables for the position and lacks ideal length. Has only average long speed and lacks the natural change-of-direction skills and vertical ability to play blanket man coverage. Lacks natural explosion to make up for false steps. Struggles to break down in space and can be a liability against the run at the second level.
