How high can the Kansas City Chiefs go with Alex Smith? Well, that might not be the big question after this season after the team went quarterback in round one. Patrick Mahomes will likely be redshirting baring injury as Alex Smith may only have one more crack at things in KC. After a 12-4 record, what can we expect from the Kansas City Chiefs heading into training camp?
3 Position Battles To Watch:
- Running Back: Spencer Ware, Charcandrick West, Kareem Hunt
Jamaal Charles is gone, but there’s no need to worry. Spencer Ware is coming off a 900 yard rushing season and looks like he will take over as the primary back. The one player to watch will be Kareem Hunt. The former Toledo back really shined at the Senior Bowl. Hunt could immediately become the third down back. Remember, Andy Reid uses his backs a ton in the passing game. The guy who produces the most in that asset will get the most playing time.
2. Defensive End: Rakeem Roches-Nunez, Tanoh Kpassagnon
Kpassagnon was taken in the second round to eventually take this spot. Bennie Logan and Chris Jones will man 2 of the 3 defensive line spots. This battle will determine the last starting job. Roches-Nunez played well last year and will receive playing time regardless.
3. Safety: Ron Parker, Eric Murray
Ron Parker is listed as the starter as a former undrafted player who has played fairly well. Parker has recorded 3 picks in the last two years and plays with plus speed running a 4.35 at the combine in 2011. Murray played sparingly as a rookie making just 9 tackles but is expected to take a big step forward.
Ready To Breakout: Chris Jones
Jones has quietly turned into one of the best three gap defensive linemen in the NFL. After getting selected in the second round in 2016, Jones racked up 2 sacks and 26 tackles in his rookie year. His season was more than just the statistics as KC’s run defense and pass rush improved with him on the team. Entering year two, look for Jones to become a Leonard Williams type of player.
Rookie To Watch: Jehu Chesson
Chesson was taken in the fourth round out of Michigan to help the receiving core. With Jeremy Maclin leaving, Chesson could be one of the options set to replace him. At 6-foot-3, Chesson is one of the few options on the roster that is a pure possession receiver.
Fantasy Sleeper: Chris Conley
Like I mentioned above, Jeremy Maclin is gone. Conley will be able to replace some of the missing speed element as Conley ran a 4.35 at the 2015 Draft Combine. After a 44 catch season in 2016, look for those numbers to improve. With Tyreek Hill as the main weapon, a lot of targets could be coming Conley’s way.
