Chiefs preview: Kansas City looks to break from status quo
Training camps are still in the distance, but USA TODAY Sports is providing five things you need to know about every team in the NFL to catch you up on the offseason. Today, the Kansas City Chiefs ...
1. Firing Dorsey was a major break from the status quo
The Chiefs made the biggest shake-up of the summer so far when they announced last Thursday they would be parting ways with general manager John Dorsey. Despite reaching the playoffs in three of four years during Dorsey's time, Kansas City decided to move in a different direction after determining not to offer an extension past this season. Coach Andy Reid, however, was given an extension last week.
2. The draft class might not pay immediate dividends
While most draft classes require time before proper evaluation, the Chiefs' haul might need additional patience. Kansas City gave up next year's first-round pick to move up for Texas Tech quarterback Patrick Mahomes, arguably the most physically gifted rookie passer. Sitting behind starter Alex Smith affords Mahomes time to adjust to learn the intricacies of the NFL and rework his mechanics. Second-round defensive end Tanoh Kpassagnon might also require some time to find his footing. The 6-7, 289-pound rookie was a highly accomplished player at Villanova, but he's facing a substantial jump in quality of competition.
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3. The offense is still looking for a breakthrough
Despite tight end Travis Kelce's career year and the emergence of big-play threat Tyreek Hill, the Chiefs ranked 20th in total offense last season. Smith has been known as more of a game manager, making it hard to keep up with more explosive AFC outfits, including the New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers and Oakland Raiders. Kansas City has won 43 regular-season games in four years under Reid but hasn’t made a deep postseason run. The receiving corps also must replace Jeremy Maclin, who was released earlier in June after being hampered by injuries last season.
4. Ware is still dependable, but he has help
Spencer Ware ran for 921 yards last season, averaging 4.3 yards per carry and helping set the pace for the Chiefs offense. Though he struggled in the second half of the season, Ware is a reliable runner between the tackles and takes care of the football. Third-round pick Kareem Hunt, who rushed for nearly 5,000 yards and more than 40 touchdowns at Toledo, should be an early contributor who can ease Ware's workload. Charcandrick West also returns in the backfield.
5. The front seven has to step up against the run
The Chiefs frequently struggled up front in 2016, ranking 26th in rushing defense with 121.1 yards allowed per game. The team signed Bennie Logan to take over at nose tackle for Dontari Poe, who later signed with the Atlanta Falcons. Defensive end Chris Jones could be in for a big year after a promising rookie campaign, but Kansas City needs linebackers Justin Houston and Derrick Johnson at full strength to limit opportunities in the ground game.
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