The Kansas City Chiefs made the playoffs a year ago giving the Patriots their best in the Divisional round. Kansas City will look to win the division this time in 2016 but they will have some competition with the Super Bowl Champion Broncos and much improved Raiders. What’s the Chiefs outlook in 2016?
3 Position Battles To Watch:
- Wide Receiver: Albert Wilson vs. Chris Conley vs. Mike Williams vs. Rod Streater
Jeremy Maclin will start at one spot but the other is wide open. Wilson was the third leading receiver last season with only 35 catches. 2nd year pro Chris Conley is expected to improve as well. Williams and Streater are veteran wild cards.
2. Kick/Punt Returner: Knile Davis vs. De’Anthony Thomas
Both players are very good at their job as the Chiefs have two really good ones while the rest of the league can’t find one. Davis has returned a few for touchdowns in the past while Thomas seems to be the more obvious fit based off speed. Both players were shopped this offseason to as the Chiefs have plenty of tailback depth.
3. Cornerback: Phillip Gaines vs. Steven Nelson
The Raiders pried former Chiefs corner Sean Smith away this offseason. Both players didn’t get a ton of playing time a year ago but figure to play big roles in 2016. Nelson probably has the highest ceiling of the two. Rookie Eric Murray is a guy who figures to make some noise as well.
Ready To Breakout: Marcus Peters
Peters is already one of the best corners in the league who had 8 interceptions during his rookie season. Peters only slipped in the draft due to off the field issues. Without Sean Smith in town I expect Peters to get that avoid at all costs treatment like Richard Sherman does in Seattle.
Fantasy Sleeper: Jamaal Charles
Charles is coming off of a torn ACL from the season prior and is undervalued in fantasy rankings thus far. Charles is Andy Reid’s version of Brian Westbrook and will serve in both the running and passing games.
Rookie To Watch: Kevin Hogan
Alex Smith is in no danger of losing his job but Hogan is a guy I want to see this preseason. Hogan has a weird throwing motion as it will be interesting to see if quarterback guru Andy Reid changes anything in his delivery.
Kansas City will likely be in the playoff discussion again in 2016. Alex Smith of course will have to play lights out football again for that to happen.
