(STATS) – Getting drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs In the third round Friday night surely gave former Western Illinois defensive tackle Khalen Saunders reason to do a handspring and back flip.
Saunders – the 84th overall selection – became the first draft choice from Western Illinois since linebacker Jason Williams went to the Dallas Cowboys in the third round in 2009.
Saunders has been labeled as the “World’s Biggest Cheerleader” on social media. His 6-foot, 320-pound size hasn’t prevented him from being an Internet sensation for his gymnastic moves, including at the Reese’s Senior Bowl in January.
“Short, powerful and sudden. There’s a lot to like about this guy,” ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay said.
Saunders’ Western Illinois career was worth flipping over. A first-team STATS FCS All-American in 2018, Saunders totaled 127 tackles, 34½ tackles for loss, 18 sacks and six forced fumbles over his four seasons.
Assessed NFLDraftScout.com: “A fantastic athlete, Saunders is built like a refrigerator, showcasing the initial quickness and lateral agility to help earn him the reputation as the ‘Aaron Donald of the FCS.'”
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