A linebacker was not really what I was expecting but at the same time I can't be disappointed with the choice. The Hawks' depth at linebacker is scary thin and K.J. Wright is a long, big, athletic linebacker that can play a number of positions on your defense. He'll provide depth at linebacker and could be a LEO candidate as well.
He's durable and versatile - which follows a pattern here being set by the Seahawks. Wright is a guy that can rush the passer, has good pursuit and a good motor, but can also drop back into coverage. Is a sure tackler with a mean streak and has a great combination of length, speed and size and gives the Hawks a lot of options on defense.
Some outlets project him as a strongside linebacker in a 4-3 so if this is where the Hawks envision him it will be interesting to see where the Hawks see Aaron Curry playing down the line. Wright has the ability to rush the passer though as well so perhaps he's seen as a longer term replacement for Chris Clemons and free agent Raheem Brock.
Overall the pick makes sense. Our linebacking crew, though once a dominant force, has been reduced to shambles by injuries, trades, and free agency. Currently David Hawthorne, Lofa Tatupu, and Aaron Curry are the only game-ready linebackers so K.J. Wright fills a need and offers a versatile option for Defensive Coordinator Gus Bradley.