May 14, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid walks on the field during organized team activities at the University of Kansas Hospital Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

With Andy Reid now in Kansas City after a long tenure in Philadelphia, and Chip Kelly now in Philadelphia after building up a college football program in Oregon to the point of being investigated by the NCAA about violations – a sign in college football that you’ve finally made it – there were bound to be some comparisons between the two coaches. After all, Philadelphia hasn’t always been known as the most forgiving fan base, and the “glad-you’re-gone” talk will only escalate before it finally culminates in the Chiefs’ and Eagles’ early season matchup.

As for now, the first real comparisons between how Kelly and Reid run their teams have been coming out over the past week or so. We all heard how Chip Kelly was doing away with the tradition of Taco Tuesday and Fast Food Friday – while Reid didn’t want to take credit for Taco Tuesday, he remained quite fond of Fast Food Friday when asked by reporters and hinted it would continue with the Chiefs organization – and implementing healthy foods in the team’s cafeteria as well as instructions of how to remain health conscious throughout the season and the reasons to do so.

But that’s only one small change from Reid to Kelly, with perhaps the larger change being how the Eagles will conduct OTAs this year. In the article, posted on Monday, May 20^th in The Inquirer, it talks about Kelly’s plan to “cut out the fat” of a typical in-season practice day, and in turn, improve the sleeping and eating habits of the Eagles. “The days will be shorter, the practices, workouts, and film sessions more efficient.”

According to the article, it wouldn’t be too difficult to make days shorter from when Andy Reid was the head coach. “Reid’s days – especially the pivotal practice days of Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday – were long. They started with meetings around 8 a.m. and ended after more meetings in the early evening. In between, there was a walk-through practice, a full practice, strength and conditioning, and film study.

“But there was also a decent amount of down time. Reid never came out and said it, but he kept the days long because (a) he could and (b) he wanted to keep the players under his watchful gaze.”

While this seems like a sound practice, especially considering the amount of trouble NFL players like to get into, Kelly countered this by saying “If I can’t trust them when they leave this building then we probably brought the wrong guys in here.” And as the article points out, it’s “not as if Reid’s players didn’t have enough time to get in trouble during the season.”

Just Google: LeSean McCoy, in trouble with law.

So Chiefs fans, what do you think when you read about the differences between Reid and Kelly? From just reading this article, do you like how Reid runs his team, or do you think the innovation Kelly is bringing in is a better method? Are you OK with Reid bringing this style of coaching with him to Kansas City?

We must remember how successful Reid was in Philadelphia while Kelly is still unproven, as well as realize that just because Reid practiced these methods in Philadelphia doesn’t necessarily mean he will bring them all to KC. So fill up the comments section with your thoughts on the Reid vs Kelly comparisons and how you feel about what Reid is bringing to the Chiefs.

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs recently hired former Nevada head coach and creator of the Pistol offense, Chris Ault, as a consultant, leading many to speculate that the Chiefs would be exclusively running the Pistol offense.

Speaking to the media yesterday after the Chiefs’ OTA practice, head coach Andy Reid said his team would not necessarily be running only Pistol plays.

“Well it is an option, literally,” said Reid when asked if running the Pistol offense was an option. “We do a little bit of everything, so that’s what we’ve always done. We’re not featuring that. But we mess around with a little bit of everything.”

Reid clarified that Ault isn’t moving to Kansas City and that he will work on special projects given to him by Reid. The coach also mentioned that Ault will work with the Chiefs’ Spread Game Analyst, Brad Childress.

“Chris is a consultant and I brought him in,” said Reid. “He’s actually been here once and visited with the defense and spent some time there. He visited with Brad Childress a little bit and they went over some stuff. He will not be here, he’s not moving here, that’s not what he’s doing. He’s living in Reno. I’m doing with him what I did with Tommy Brasher for the last six years and that was I would give him projects to do and between him and Brad [Childress], they’ll do that and work together on some things for us.”

The Chiefs aren’t going to come out and talk too much about what their plans are for their offense. While I doubt KC will use only Pistol formations, even if that was the plan, Reid isn’t likely to tip his hand in May.

Chances are the Chiefs will run a bit of a West Coast/Pistol hybrid. Reid has always been a West Coast guy and QB Alex Smith thrived in a similar system in San Francisco.

Still, the Chiefs will benefit from mixing things up a little bit in an effort to keep their opponents guessing. With more and more teams running versions of the Pistol and other college offenses, the Chiefs’ defense will also benefit from practicing against the Pistol.

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid keeps defying expectations.

After a fourteen years as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, Reid’s tenure ended in failure. His last years with the Eagles were marred by losing seasons and despite a long history of success, Reid was never able to guide Philadelphia to a championship. The organization decided it was time for a change.

As the end of the 2012 season approached and Reid’s eventual fate was becoming more and more apparent, there were some in the media that suggested that Reid should probably take a year or two off from football. Fourteen years is a long time for an NFL coach to hold the same job and Reid had recently lost his son Garrett, who died at Eagles training camp last August from an accidental heroin overdose.

But Andy Reid had no intention in taking time off. Just days after being fired by the Eagles, Reid was being introduced as the next head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs.

Given Reid’s history and status as one of the most respected head coaches in the NFL, the media got right back to jumping to conclusions. It was written over and over that Reid would have full control in Kansas City and would have the final say in all personel decisions, even over the GM.

Yet everything we’ve seen from the Chiefs this offseason seems to indicated that GM John Dorsey and Reid really do have their own areas of power. After being hired, Reid was quoted on multiple occasions to the press,as saying that Dorsey had the final call on personel decisions.

Thus far, that appears to be the case.

Chiefs owner Clark Hunt seemed to have had his fill of power plays with former GM Scott Pioli. Pioli had total control over everything from the personel decisions right down to who picked up candy wrappers in the stairwell. Pioli’s power trip caused strife in the front office and on the field with former head coach Todd Haley.

Hunt may have allowed Reid a say in who the eventual GM of the Chiefs would be. Reid was the big fish and I am sure Hunt wanted the coach to have a GM that he was comfortable with. But just because Reid was afforded a say in putting together the team, doesn’t mean that he was granted all-encompassing power.

Reid seems to trust Dorsey and so far at least, there have been no reports of any disagreements between the two. Reid’s willingness to defy expectations and work with a GM instead of having the GM work for him, should only benefit the Chiefs as they build their team. Running a successful NFL franchise is a large and difficult task and not many men can do it on their own. Instead of being the football czar in KC, as he was originally projected to be by the media, it appears Reid is content with doing what he does best, which is coaching a football team.

Finally, Reid and Dorsey have decided to hire former Nevada head coach and creator of the Pistol offense, Chris Ault, as a consultant. While it isn’t clear exactly what Ault’s duties will be, there are reports that he will be helping install some form of the Pistol on offense, while also helping to coach the defense on stopping it.

This is yet another move that shows Reid’s ability to adapt to the ever-changing and evolving NFL. College offensive schemes are becoming more and more prevalent in the pros and if the Chiefs want to keep up with their competition, then they need to change with the times.

Kansas City has also hired former Minnesota Vikings head coach, Brad Childress, as the team’s “Spread Game Analyst.” While it is unclear exactly what Childress’ duties will be, it is apparent that the Chiefs are wisely bringing in talented and experienced consultants to help them survive and thrive in today’s NFL.

Instead of getting the hotshot, veteran head coach that was going to come in and call all the shots and put everyone in their place, the Chiefs appear to have gotten a thoughtful, forward thinking leader that has learned from both his success and his failures.

We’re way too early in the process to know if this new Chiefs regime will be successful. But the early returns seem positive.

If Reid and company can put it all together, there could be something very special happing in Kansas City.

Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell during the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell during the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

With the draft less than a week away, rumors and anticipation are reaching an all-time high with who the Kansas City Chiefs will take with their 1^st round pick. Mind you, this may all become much clearer if/when the Chiefs trade LT Brandon Albert to the Miami Dolphins.

Since this will be new General Manager John Dorsey and Head Coach Andy Reid’s first draft with the Chiefs, I wanted to look into what the two’s prior drafting tendencies were.  For Reid, I looked back to the start of his career in Philadelphia, starting back to 1999.  For Dorsey, I looked into the Green Bay Packers’ drafts dating back to 2000, when he was Director of College Scouting until 2011, then becoming their Director of Football Operations for the 2012 season.

Here is all first round picks for the two.

Philadelphia Eagles 1^st round under Reid:

2012 – Fletcher Cox – DT – Mississippi State – 12^th pick

2011 – Danny Watkins – OL – Baylor – 23^rd pick

2010 – Brandon Graham – DE – Michigan – 13^th pick

2009 – Jeremy Maclin – WR – Missouri – 19^th pick

2008 – No first round pick

2007 – No first round pick

2006 – Brodrick Bunkley – DT – Florida State – 14^th pick

2005 – Mike Patterson – DT – USC – 31^st pick

2004 – Shawn Andrews – G – Arkansas – 16^th pick

2003 – Jerome McDougle – DE – Miami (FL) – 15^th pick

2002 – Lito Sheppard – DB – Florida – 26^th pick

2001 – Freddie Mitchell – WR – UCLA – 25^th pick

2000 – Corey Simon – DT – Florida State – 6^th pick

1999 – Donovan McNabb – QB – Syracuse – 2^nd pick

Green Bay Packers 1^st round under Dorsey:

2012 – Nick Perry – DE – USC – 28^th pick

2011 – Derek Sherrod – OL – Mississippi State – 32^nd pick

2010 – Bryan Bulaga – T – Iowa – 23^rd pick

2009 – B.J. Raji – DT – Boston College – 9^th pick

2009 – Clay Matthews – LB – USC – 26^th pick

2008 – No first round pick

2007 – Justin Harrell – DT – Tennessee – 16^th pick

2006 – A.J. Hawk – LB – Ohio State – 5^th pick

2005 – Aaron Rodgers – QB – California – 24^th pick

2004 – Ahmad Carroll – DB – Arkansas – 25^th pick

2003 – Nick Barnett – LB – Oregon State – 29^th pick

2002 – Javon Walker – WR – Florida State – 20^th pick

2001 – Jamal Reynolds – DE – Florida State – 10^th pick

2000 – Bubba Franks – TE – Miami (FL) – 14^th pick

Reid chose a defensive lineman six times during his tenure, Dorsey four.  Both men drafted this position more than any other.  I know this will make Chiefs fans cringe, since it seems every draft we take a D-Lineman.  Each only took two Quarterbacks in the first round.  But with good reasons: Reid secured his franchise QB early, grabbing Donovan McNabb in 1999.  Dorsey had Brett Favre in Green Bay and wisely helped to choose Aaron Rodgers during his draft day slide in 2005.  So, both positions were handled correctly.  (It would be great if that was ever said about the Chiefs quarterback position.)  Dorsey then helped to grab three linebackers during his tenure, all key contributors to the Packers defense.  Both also drafted OL two times each.

I think it’s easy to see that both men value both sides of the line of scrimmage, totaling 14 picks between the both over their tenures with their respective teams.  Buzz with the Chiefs dating back to forever has linked them with Luke Joeckel from Texas A&M or Eric Fisher of Central Michigan.  Seeing the history, some names that have been associated with the Chiefs also were DT Sharif Floyd of Florida, OLB Dion Jordan of Oregon, DE Ezekiel Ansah of BYU, and DT Star Lotulelei of Utah.  All of these make sense due to the Dorsey and Reid’s prior tendencies.  Mind you, I am not predicting a pick; I’m just showing the tendencies of the new regime.  I will leave the pick up to you now, Addicts!

Say what you will about the moves that new Chiefs GM John Dorsey and head coach Andy Reid have made since they took control of the team, but one thing is clear. They are men of action. Since taking control they have systematically been remaking the roster. If you step back and look at everything they have done and how they have gone about doing it, a clear game plan emerges.

Step 1 – Evaluate the current roster and decide who you want to keep and who needs to go.

Dorsey and Reid clearly wanted to keep Dwayne Bowe. They decided Eric Winston was disposable. They franchised Branden Albert, but what exactly they plan to do with him remains uncertain. Finally, they decided that their QB was NOT on the roster they inherited from former Chiefs GM Scott Pioli.

Step 2 – Find their QB.

If you believe published media reports, Andy Reid took the KC job with the idea of bringing Alex Smith to KC to be his QB. Rumors of Smith to KC surfaced early on, but there was nothing concrete at that time. That changed after the combine. Shortly after the combine ended, reports surfaced saying that KC had agreed to a deal that would bring Smith to KC. So it appears to me that Reid told Dorsey that he wanted Smith, but they decided to wait to finalize anything until after they saw the QB draft prospects up close at the combine. Apparently they didn’t see anything at the combine that changed Reid’s mind. They dealt for Smith after the combine and Dorsey said at the press conference that Smith would be their starter for the foreseeable future. If any further proof was still needed to show that they weren’t going to commit very much to a rookie QB in this year’s draft they went out and committed multiple years and millions of dollars to Chase Daniel to be the #2 QB. The latest draft reports (i.e., rumor or smokescreen) is that the Chiefs are still strongly considering Geno Smith. My advice to KC fans would be to put no faith in those reports. A QB that is worth taking #1 overall is a valuable commodity. It is in KC’s best interest to sell Geno as just that in hopes of getting someone to trade up with them to take him. I believe the Chiefs have the QBs that will sit at one and two on the depth chart already on the roster. Now the #3 spot? Let’s just say that I don’t think Ricky Stanzi should get too comfortable.

Step 3 – Fill roster holes with solid (but not “super star”) free agent signings.

Reid and Dorsey have added several solid players that have upgraded the overall talent on the roster without breaking the bank for any one player. These signings include: Dunta Robinson, Sean Smith, Anthony Fasano, Mike DeVito, Donnie Avery, and Geoff Schwartz.

Step 4 – Thoroughly evaluate the draft prospects and set their draft board.

This is where the Chiefs are right now. They have reportedly had private work outs with multiple possible first round selections. Including:

Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU
Eric Fisher, OL, Central Michigan
Sharrif Floyd, DL, Florida
Luke Joeckel, OL, Texas A&M
Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma
Jarvis Jones, LB, Georgia
Dion Jordan, DL, Oregon
Dee Milliner, DB, Alabama
Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

It appears to me that KC is taking a good look at the top 10 prospects in the draft. This could be in part because they want to do their homework on just who they will take at #1, but it could also prepare them for a trade down within the top 10. It doesn’t appear that KC is spending a lot of time looking at prospects that are projected to go in the the second half of the first round. Since the only people that would move up to #1 are teams looking for a QB and all of those teams are picking in the top 10 that’s a smart move.

Step 5 – ???????

I’m really curious to see what comes next. Will the team wait to make any other major moves before the draft? What will they do with Branden Albert? Will they be able to move back in the draft? I think those last two are related. If the team’s top priority is trading Albert then I think it lessons the chance that they’ll trade back from #1. With Albert gone they would have to get a top LT prospect and even if they just traded back to around 8-9 there is a chance that the top LTs could all be gone. The only way I see them trading Albert and the top pick is if they can work a deal in the top 4 picks.

I also think that an Albert trade would need to be completed before the start of the draft. Albert made it known that he doesn’t want to play anywhere except LT, everybody knows that now. So if KC drafts a LT at #1 and then tries to trade Albert, teams will use that against them. Right now KC can tell teams that if they can’t get good value for Albert that they’ll just keep him to play LT and draft another position in the first round.

That’s why I’m anxious to see if anything happens in the next few weeks. If Dorsey and Reid REALLY liked one of the LTs that they visited and are set on drafting him at #1 I think we could see Albert moved in the coming days. If they weren’t really sold on the left tackles then they may focus on trying to deal the #1 pick and keeping Albert for another season.

If I were running the show I’d trade Albert right now to Miami for their top 2nd round pick. I’d then use the money I saved on dealing Albert to sign Andre Smith away from Cincinnati. With my RT taken care of I’d see if I could get a team like Jax or Philly to come up to #1 to take Geno in return for their 2nd round pick as well. If they would do it, great, we can still take a top tackle in the 1st to replace Albert and we have two early 2nd round picks. If not, we take a LT at #1 and still have both tackle spots filled and a 2nd round pick.

So what do you think Addicts? What is Dorsey and Reid’s next move? Will we get any more answers soon? They clearly have a plan that they’re sticking to. I just wish I knew what it was. I do feel confident that these guys do have a clear cut plan and that so far they have done a nice job of improving the roster. I’m anxious to hear what you think in the comments below.

As always, thanks for reading and GO CHIEFS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Kansas City Chiefs will throw the ball in 2013. If you don’t believe me, just ask the new head coach, Andy Reid. He’s a passing coach. He grooms quarterbacks and makes receivers into superstars. It’s what he does. Reid and new Chiefs GM, John Dorsey, have done everything they can on the offensive side of the ball to improve the Chiefs’ dismal passing attack during the 2012 season. They have secured the services of a starting caliber quarterback who has not only been to the playoffs, but has won in January. They’ve re-signed the Chiefs’ best receiver and paid him top dollar. Once the free agency period hit, Reid and Dorsey didn’t break the bank, but they had a plan and that included finding a fast receiver who can “take the top off the defense.” They believe they found that in newly signed wide receiver, Donnie Avery. The Chiefs will absolutely throw the ball in 2013. The question is, how well will they do it and will Reid’s offense work with the players on the Chiefs’ roster?

For the Chiefs to be successful, all the components have to fit together. Alex Smith must maintain the accuracy that everyone is talking about. Bowe has to catch the balls that are thrown his way and then do something with the pigskin to move it up field. This mysterious “best five” offensive line has to give Smith the time to get the ball to the right receiver. Finally, Jamaal Charles has to do what he does and break a 40 or 50 yard run every now and then to keep the opposing defenses honest. All that said, do the Chiefs really have the pieces it will take to pass the ball successfully this season? Let’s take a look at some of the major players in Reid’s new “passing offense.”

I would hardly call Dwayne Bowe a question mark. The man has shown in his six seasons with the Chiefs he is a versatile receiver. He has had passes thrown to him from seven different quarterbacks and still has managed to secure the Chiefs’ franchise record for touchdown receptions in a single season. That’s a pretty lofty feat for a team that used to count tight end Tony Gonzales as one of their players. The only question mark that plants itself squarely on Dwayne Bowe’s back is what will he do now that he has the big contract he’s been searching for. He’s getting paid top five receiver money. Will he show up and be a top five receiver?

Dexter McCluster was drafted to the Chiefs’ roster to be a playmaker. I don’t think Todd Haley and Scott Pioli truly knew what they were getting when they called the diminutive athlete’s number with the 36^th overall pick in the 2010 draft. While McCluster’s numbers haven’t been as stellar as many would think fitting for a high second round pick (984 receiving yards in 42 games with three touchdowns) many would attribute that to McCluster not being used properly. Reid seems to have a plan for #22 and spoke very highly of him in a recent interview.

I kind of like him. He’s not the biggest guy in the world, but he’s got a heart of a lion. He’s got that MO, tremendous quickness and can catch. He’s pretty good at running the football, so there is a place for him. You line him up everywhere. You can move him around and kind of do some unique things with him.

Andy Reid’s words bode well for DMC’s future with the Chiefs organization. I don’t see him being a late off-season cut or casualty of the new administration in Kansas City.

Newly acquired free agent Donnie Avery is a bit of a wildcard. Many Chiefs fans (me included) were scratching their heads after this signing was announced. I found myself searching up YouTube to find any tape I could on Reid and Dorsey’s new toy. I didn’t have to search any further than the Indianapolis Colts played vs. Detroit Lions game last December. Let me recap it for you. The Colts needed a touchdown to beat the Lions and as time expired, rookie quarterback Andrew Luck found Donnie Avery on a slant route. Avery pulled the ball in and hit the accelerator. With his speed, there was no way he would allow the Lions’ secondary to catch him. Game over. The Chiefs need that “clutch” player on their team. I’m hoping they found it. Time will tell, I suppose.

Perhaps the biggest question mark in the passing offense is third year receiver, Jon Baldwin. Last year during pre-season, as Dwayne Bowe was skipping training camp due to not having a contract in place, Baldwin got most of the reps with the first team. Blogs and tweets were running rampant with news of the amazing, one-handed, circus catches that Baldwin was making in camp. Everyone forgave the former first round pick for his disappointing rookie season. Fans blamed the lockout and the lack of an offseason for his less than stellar first year. Last year was going to be Baldwin’s year…or not. He fell flat and didn’t live up to even the most conservative of expectations. Baldwin cannot afford to have another year like the last two.

Andy Reid is ready to win now. In his offense, that means catching passes and scoring touchdowns. The entire mindset of the Chiefs team is about to change. Reid and Dorsey have proven in the short time they’ve been a part of this organization they’re willing to make tough decisions and do what it takes. To think Reid will change his entire offense because Kansas City has traditionally been a “run first” team is silly. I love Jamaal Charles and I love watching him hit the edge or find a seam and burn an opposing defense for a 50 or 60 yard touchdown run. But, there is nothing better than holding your breath when the game is on the line and a pass is in the air, waiting to see the spectacular catch and ultimate touchdown on the other end. The Chiefs will throw the ball this season…and I can’t wait.

That’s how I see it Addicts. What say you?

Feb 22, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kansas City Chiefs general manager John Dorsey speaks at a press conference during the 2013 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

When the 2012 NFL season ended in a disappointing 2-14 record for the Kansas City Chiefs, the one silver lining was the fact they had earned the first overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. While the class of quarterbacks is significantly lower than recent years (read: Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Cam Newton, etc.) the Chiefs were certain that no matter who was running the show at One Arrowhead Drive, they would draft a quarterback. When the new head coach was introduced as Andy Reid, fans rejoiced at the news, knowing Reid’s history and what he could do with young quarterbacks (read: Donovan McNabb and Michael Vick.) When Clark Hunt introduced his new general manager as John Dorsey of Green Bay Packer fame, fans practically began salivating at the thought of Geno Smith in a Chiefs jersey. After all, this was the guy who drafted Aaron Rodgers. Right?

With news of the Alex Smith trade with the San Francisco 49ers, along with a Dorsey press conference where he downplayed the caliber of college quarterbacks in this year’s draft, the hopes that the Smith starting under center this season would be wearing #12, and not #11 were dashed. At that point, everyone was pretty certain what the Chiefs would be doing in the draft. Add this to the fact that the duo had signed Drew Brees’ understudy, Chase Daniel, to hold Alex Smith’s clipboard this season, and the chance of the Chiefs drafting a QB in any round higher than four are pretty much nil. While some still hold onto hope that Dorsey and Reid will call Smith’s (Geno that is) number on April 25^th, I think we can all call that a pipe-dream at this point.

The consensus from most draft experts on who will be picked number one has  focused mainly on the exceptional crop of offensive linemen in this year’s class. Most experts are convinced the Chiefs will either draft Luke Joeckel from Texas A & M, Eric Fisher from Central Michigan or Lane Johnson from Oklahoma. This theory has gained even more steam after the Chiefs released Eric Winston. However, in a surprising move, the Chiefs leadership signed offensive tackle Geoff Schwartz from the Vikings at the end of the week. This may have been a depth move as Schwartz hasn’t been a full-time starter in the NFL as of yet, or perhaps the duo of Dorsey and Reid may see something in him that other teams haven’t and have him pegged as their “day one” starter at the right tackle position. With the young talent already on the offensive line in Kansas City, it would seem a waste to bring in another lineman, regardless of the talent level in the draft.

So as the free agency period has gone from shopping at Macy’s to shopping at K-Mart in the level of talent and value, the ultimate question remains. What do the Chiefs do with the coveted number one overall pick? While many think the Chiefs will draft the best player available, signs seem to be pointing more and more to the Chiefs trading out of the number one slot. Who should they trade with and what could that trade bring? Let’s take a look at some possibilities.

In examining possible trade scenarios one would have to think that unless the deal was overinflated and too good not to pass up, the Chiefs would probably not want to trade out of the top ten picks. Looking at the teams in the top ten, there are a few who have a significant need at quarterback. While it’s been said again and again Geno Smith isn’t worth the number one pick, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. To a team without a starting caliber quarterback, it would seem that not picking up a signal caller is more risky than over-reaching and drafting one with the top pick. Of the teams in the top ten, four teams (Jacksonville, Oakland, Arizona and Buffalo) have a significant need at quarterback and a fifth team (Philadelphia) has expressed great interest in Geno Smith.

The Jacksonville Jaguars drafted signal caller Blaine Gabbert two years ago, in 2011, with the tenth overall pick in the draft. His performance has been less than inspiring. As such, they may be ready to scrap the Gabbert experiment and move on to another quarterback. As the Jaguars draft in the number two position, the only way they would trade to move up is if they were that desperate to dump Gabbert (which I’m not 100 percent sold on) and if they seriously thought the Chiefs might draft Smith away from them. The eventuality of both of these scenarios is slim, not making them a likely trade partner.

The next team with a quarterback need is the Oakland Raiders drafting in the third position. I will only say that if Reid and Dorsey trade with the Raiders and allow them to get Smith, their career in Kansas City will most likely end before it starts. The goal here should be to keep Smith away from Oakland as much as anything else.

The Arizona Cardinals’ quarterback woes have been about as well publicized as the Kansas City Chiefs’. Just like the Chiefs, they had more than one starter at quarterback last year. Just like the Chiefs, they just released one of those starters from last season, Kevin Kolb. And, just like the Chiefs, they used the off-season to bring in another quarterback. The free agent they signed is Drew Stanton, former back up to the rookie phenomenon Andrew Luck in Indianapolis. Whether or not Stanton is to be the future of the Arizona franchise remains to be seen. However, the team has indicated Stanton was brought in to start, especially considering the ties Stanton has with new Cardinals’ head coach, Bruce Arians whose previous job was offensive coordinator with the Colts. All in all, the Cardinals don’t seem willing to give up the farm to trade into the number one position.

There have been reports this last week, that the Philadelphia Eagles were not only present at the West Virginia pro-day, but put Geno Smith through a “grueling” workout. The Eagles, under new leadership of Chip Kelly, seem to be collecting quarterbacks. Previous starter, Michael Vick is still under contract as is second year man Nick Foles who was drafted by the Chiefs’ own Andy Reid during his tenure there. Additionally, the Eagles signed quarterback Dennis Dixson, a former Kelly protégé, indicating they are full at the QB position. All these factors point to the fact that their pro-day interest in Smith is nothing more than a bluff, as they likely won’t spend a high, first round pick on a quarterback.

A trade with the Buffalo Bills offers a mutually beneficial scenario. In case you aren’t glued to Twitter and the NFL Network like I’ve been the last week (much to my wife’s chagrin, by the way) you may not know that the Bills cut their starting quarterback, Ryan Fitzpatrick.

The move leaves the Bills with Tarvaris Jackson as their starting quarterback. In a QB starved market the Bills will likely be looking to the draft to find their hope. The only problem is, currently they’re scheduled to draft eighth overall. This could create a problem for them in getting the best QB available, which I think at this point everyone universally agrees is Geno Smith, because Jacksonville, Oakland, Philadelphia and Arizona draft in front of them and all three could potentially have interest in and draft Geno Smith.

The Bills are desperate at this point and could potentially be the most likely trade partner with the Chiefs in order to snag their franchise QB. In doing this, the Chiefs could stand to gain a substantial amount of picks. If you use last year’s trade for the #2 overall pick between the St. Louis Rams and the Washington Redskins as a guide, the teams swapped picks in the first round and the Redskins gave up their second round pick as well as their 2013 first rounder and their 2014 first rounder.

Now, I don’t think the Bills are quite as desperate to get Geno Smith as the Skins were to draft RGIII, but I don’t think swapping first rounders, a second rounder this year and next year’s second round pick are completely out of the question. That could put the Chiefs in a pretty good spot moving forward. Dorsey and Reid have both said they intend to build this team through the draft. This would be the way to do it. As an added benefit, the sting many fans are feeling from the two picks spent on Alex Smith would be significantly lessened if we gained these picks back in a trade out of the top spot.

If the Chiefs pulled off this trade, they would still most likely be able to get one of the linemen they’ve had their eye on throughout this process. Lane Johnson is projected to go at around the 11^th pick, so they would be able to get their hands on him, at least. Depending on how the rest of the board fell, they might even be able to swing Fisher. Regardless, it would be the best possible scenario for the team to fall into.

I know there are potentially dozens of scenarios that could play out in the month and a half leading up to the draft. If there’s one you think more likely than outlined here, please let me know. I’d love to hear some of the ideas that are floating around out there.

Whichever way this shakes out, it’s going to be interesting to watch. It’s not even April yet and I already can’t wait to smell wings cooking and taste ice cold beer on a Sunday afternoon. I went crazy with my predictions last year and how I thought the Chiefs were going to perform after what I thought was a great free agency. I’m cautiously optimistic this year, but I’m not declaring us Superbowl bound quite yet. I’ve come to learn, as many of you have, that the truth is in winning football games. We haven’t had a whole lot of truth around here in a while. Here’s hoping this year we don’t get lied to again.

That’s how I see it Addicts. What say you?

March 19, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid answers questions from reporters during the annual NFL meetings at the Arizona Biltmore. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

“I’m going to try to play the five best guys,” Reid said. “I’ve never, ever in my career put a guy into a position he hasn’t played. I had Shaun Andrews (with Philadelphia) and he might have been the finest left tackle in the National Football League had I played him there. He was playing guard for me and then he played a little bit of tackle but he was the best guard in football.

“I know (Albert) can play left tackle and I know he can play it at a championship caliber level. That’s a refreshing thing.”

Albert and his future with the Chiefs has been the subject of much public speculation. It hasn’t stopped even when Albert informed the Chiefs he would sign his one-year contract. One issue has been his position, even though Albert has been nothing but a left tackle since the Chiefs drafted him in the first round in 2008.

1. First Round, 1st overall: Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M

Of the Chiefs’ needs remaining, offensive tackle is the most pressing I think. I don’t know that quarterback is completely out of the picture here, but that would put intense pressure on Alex Smith to perform immediately or be benched again, just like he was as a 49er. I think Joeckel best fits what the Chiefs are doing, and Andy Reid has always placed emphasis on building with early picks being spent on players who fight in the trenches. That being said, I think this is the pick that makes the most sense. Investing your greatest asset in protecting Alex Smith, who was not probably the most talented player they picked up this offseason, but definitely the most important. He has proven over the last two years that given time, he can be an accurate passer. The key is going to be making him the best player he can be, making his job as easy as it can be.

NFL Mocks

The NFL owners meetings are in full swing this week in Phoenix, Arizona and Kansas City Chiefs head coach is in town and speaking with the media.

While watching NFL Network today, they cut to a brief interview with Reid, wearing a a Hawaiian shirt for the second day in a row. Reid was sitting at a table with some other media members.
When NFLN looked in on the interview, Reid was talking about the 4-3 defense. The coverage didn’t catch the question but it did catch part of Reid’s response: “I’m not telling you I don’t like the 4-3. I think it’s a good defense. But that’s just not, the direction I want this time.”

The Chiefs have already gone on the record as saying they plan to stick with the 3-4 defense. KC has invested a lot of draft picks in 3-4 personnel over the last few years and the new regime has decided to stay the course.

Arrowhead Addict

Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid briefly considered taking a year off from football after being fired by the Philadelphia Eagles on Dec. 31.

But at the NFL owners’ meetings Tuesday, a relaxed and reflective Reid seemed energized by the challenge returning Chiefs to prominence.

He views coaching as his calling — and not even the heart-breaking loss of his eldest son last summer kept him away from the game.

USA Today

Five weeks and two days before the 2013 NFL Draft, and at least seven teams have made their interest in the top quarterback in the class known publicly.

The Browns arranged a private workout with Smith. Same time, coach Rob Chudzinski claims he still hasn’t watched tape of Smith. Perhaps we’re to believe he’s leaving that to CEO Joe Banner and GM Mike Lombardi, who called drafting Brandon Weeden 22nd overall in 2012 a “panicked distaster.”

For the purpose of this walk-through, let’s take the bait.

Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Tuesday at the AFC coaches breakfast that it’s too early to rule out Smith. He wouldn’t say whether he had Smith graded close to where he had Donovan McNabb in 1999, but Reid vowed that he does believe Smith “is a good quarterback.” That’s hardly over-the-top interest. And after trading for Alex Smith and signing Chase Daniel, we can’t believe Reid is head over heels for a quarterback in this lot. But it’s enough to put doubt in the minds of the team holding the No. 2 pick.

CBS Sports

]]> http://arrowheadaddict.com/2013/03/20/the-morning-fix-chiefs-news-320/feed/ 0 http://arrowheadaddict.com/2013/03/19/no-we-didnt-overpay-for-fasano-and-daniel/ http://arrowheadaddict.com/2013/03/19/no-we-didnt-overpay-for-fasano-and-daniel/#comments Tue, 19 Mar 2013 19:00:27 +0000 Nicholas Alan Clayton http://arrowheadaddict.com/?p=43842 I don’t know about the rest of you, but this past week has done wonders for my mental health. Although we still have to get through the rest of free agency, the Draft and training camp, it is quite clear that the Chiefs team that takes the field in September will be the best in [...]

No, We Didn’t Overpay For Fasano & Daniel - Arrowhead Addict - Arrowhead Addict - A Kansas City Chiefs Fan Site - News, Blogs, Opinion and more

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I don’t know about the rest of you, but this past week has done wonders for my mental health.

Although we still have to get through the rest of free agency, the Draft and training camp, it is quite clear that the Chiefs team that takes the field in September will be the best in years. In terms of balance on both offense and defense, it may be the best we’ve had since the 1990’s.

Of all the myriad moves the Chiefs made in the past week, nearly all seemed to have two things in common: 1.) The players cited the winning credibility of our head coach as one of the major factors in them signing for KC (when was the last time we heard that?) and 2.) (In part because of point #1,) the team got good value with each of its pickups.

On the second point, there were only two players some commentators believe the Chiefs overpaid for: TE Anthony Fasano (4 years, $16 million) and QB Chase Daniel (3 years, $10 million). I disagree in both cases.

First, Fasano.

Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Line up this guy’s stats next to literally any player that has caught a ball for the Chiefs in the last five years. He’s averaged 4.6 touchdowns per season since joining the Dolphins in 2008. The only Chief that comes close to that is WR Dwayne Bowe with 6.8, but take away his insane 15-TD 2010 season and his average is 4.75 – pretty much the same as Fasano. By the way, Bowe’s deal averages to over $10 million per year, Fasano’s — $4 million.

What’s that? Only crap quarterbacks were throwing to Bowe the last five years? Well, here’s a list of the guys that have been throwing to Fasano since 2008: Chad Pennington, Chad Henne, Tyler Thigpen, Matt Moore, Ryan Tannehill. The only time Fasano has played with a quarterback that posted a QBR ranked in the top 15 in the league was in his first year with Pennington, who turned in a 74.6 rating that year.

That year, Fasano averaged 13.4 yards per reception and racked up 7 TD’s. Just a reminder: Alex Smith’s QBR last year was 70.1. Moeaki certainly has potential, but he’s only gotten into the end zone four times for us in his NFL career.

Next, Daniel.

Obviously, there is very little tape on Daniel, but the Chiefs got the market rate for him.

I understand a lot of Chiefs fans are skeptical because pretty much the only people who have seen Daniel play in an NFL uniform are Saints and Redskins fans. Luckily for you, I went to college in Washington, DC, and I was still following the Redskins in 2009 when Daniel entered the league. An undrafted free agent pickup by the ‘Skins, he outplayed every QB on the roster that preseason, ending with a QB rating of 110.6. But, the regime decided to stick with QB’s Todd Collins, Colt Brennan and Jason Campbell when the season started because they’d already wasted draft picks on two of them and they trusted old man Collins as a safer backup option.

Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Daniel’s spot on Washington’s practice squad wasn’t even warm before New Orleans snatched him by offering him a roster spot, seeing a little of Drew Brees in him. Here’s how his preseasons with the Saints have gone since:

 

2010: 31/48 (64.5%), 369 yards (11.9 average), 4 TD, 3 INT, RAT: 78.1

2011: 28/53 (52.8%), 447 yards (15.9 average), 3 TD, 1 INT, RAT: 91.3

2012: 46/64 (71.8%), 538 yards (11.7 average), 4 TD, 2 INT, RAT: 98.7

 

Of course, it’s always difficult to judge players – especially quarterbacks – based on preseason play. On one hand, they’re throwing against mostly backup defensive backs, but they’re also playing with a hodge-podge of offensive linemen and receivers, most of whom haven’t played with each other before and won’t be on the team by the time the regular season begins. In the end, there are reasons why the chaotic qualities of playing in the second half of preseason games can go both for and against QB’s.

What we can gleam from these stats is that Chase Daniel has proven he can be an efficient quarterback and he is progressing. The only lull in his progress towards very high-efficiency throwing was in 2011 when he was obviously trying more deep passes, accumulating a 15.9 yards-per-completion average.

It is also telling that he was able to work his way up from undrafted free agent to second-string quarterback on the New Orleans freakin’ Saints, whose offense requires both smarts and a guy you trust to throw the ball 50 times a game sometimes.

But, don’t take my word for it.

Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. wrote in an ESPN Insider article this week: “Daniel was one of my favorites among this year’s free-agent quarterbacks, and it wouldn’t surprise me if the former University of Missouri QB makes an impact on his new team. He, too, is efficient, gets the ball out quickly and is accurate with his ball placement. Plus, hanging in the New Orleans Saints’ quarterback meeting room over the past few years couldn’t have been be a bad thing. He might just challenge Smith for the starting role. It’s safe to say that not only will Kansas City be improved at quarterback, but more importantly, the number of turnovers and mistakes generated from this position will be dramatically decreased from a year ago. That in itself should dramatically improve the Chiefs’ chances of generating more wins.”

Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Bottom line: The Chiefs got a 26-year-old backup quarterback with upside and Reid thinks he’s a fit for the system. Good signing.

The Chiefs made plenty of other good signings and check out Stacey’s post for a full list and AA’s coverage throughout the week for breakdowns of every player.

The wave of acquisitions has given the Chiefs an all-around stronger roster. We no longer have any gaping holes. In the Draft, we can essentially do whatever we want, which is the strongest possible position.

I, for one, am giddy again, and I haven’t felt that for this team in a good long while.

]]> http://arrowheadaddict.com/2013/03/19/no-we-didnt-overpay-for-fasano-and-daniel/feed/ 0 http://arrowheadaddict.com/2013/03/19/andy-reid-talks-4-3-defense-his-time-in-philly/ http://arrowheadaddict.com/2013/03/19/andy-reid-talks-4-3-defense-his-time-in-philly/#comments Tue, 19 Mar 2013 15:06:46 +0000 Patrick Allen http://arrowheadaddict.com/?p=43838 The NFL owners meetings are in full swing this week in Phoenix, Arizona and Kansas City Chiefs head coach is in town and speaking with the media. While watching NFL Network today, they cut to a brief interview with Reid, wearing a a Hawaiian shirt for the second day in a row. Reid was sitting [...]

Andy Reid Talks 4-3 Defense, His Time In Philly - Arrowhead Addict - Arrowhead Addict - A Kansas City Chiefs Fan Site - News, Blogs, Opinion and more

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Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL owners meetings are in full swing this week in Phoenix, Arizona and Kansas City Chiefs head coach is in town and speaking with the media.

While watching NFL Network today, they cut to a brief interview with Reid, wearing a a Hawaiian shirt for the second day in a row. Reid was sitting at a table with some other media members.

When NFLN looked in on the interview, Reid was talking about the 4-3 defense. The coverage didn’t catch the question but it did catch part of Reid’s response: “I’m not telling you I don’t like the 4-3. I think it’s a good defense. But that’s just not, the direction I want this time.”

The Chiefs have already gone on the record as saying they plan to stick with the 3-4 defense. KC has invested a lot of draft picks in 3-4 personnel over the last few years and the new regime has decided to stay the course.

Reid’s comments are interesting, if only because there have been rumors that new defensive coordinator Bob Sutton may use both 3-4 and 4-3 looks.

We will hopefully get more of this interview later today when the reporters in attendance file their reports.

Reid also touched briefly on his time in Philly before NFLN cut away.

“My general philosophy is, I feel very fortunate to even coach in the National Football League,” said Reid. “To have that opportunity. Then to coach at a great place like the Eagles, I appreciated and respected every minute of that. Again, time is a crazy deal. You run your course and you move on. I wish nothing but the best for the Eagles. In Kansas City, I’m in and I’m going so I’m enjoying it.”

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid is totally a “Hawaiian Shirt Guy.”

Was there ever any doubt?

Only a special kind of guy can pull off the Hawaiian shirt.

Back in the 90′s, everyone was wearing them. They had a resurgence of sorts. When I was in junior high, everyone was wearing Hawaiian shirts with “wife beaters” underneath. It wasn’t white trash and we weren’t on vacation.

It was fashionable.

At the time.

A trip to Wkikipedia tells us all we need or want to know about the Hawaiian shirt. Did you know they are actually called Aloha shirts?

Well, you do now. And there’s no un-knowing it.

You can also learn that people have been making bad fashion choices for a very, very long time.

The modern Aloha shirt was devised in the early 1930s by Chinese merchant Ellery Chun of King-Smith Clothiers and Dry Goods, a store in Waikiki. Chun began sewing brightly colored shirts for tourists out of old kimono fabrics he had leftover in stock. The Honolulu Advertiser newspaper was quick to coin the term Aloha shirt to describe Chun’s fashionable creation. Chun trademarked the name. The first advertisement in the Honolulu Advertiser for Chun’s Aloha shirt was published on June 28, 1935.

Apparently, the custom of wearing these awful shirts spread around the world and led to a lot of “casual Fridays” in our nation’s offices. In every office I’ve ever worked in, which is just one, the custom for casual Friday’s was to wear jeans…because, you know, wearing Hawaiian shirts is out of fashion for everyone except people on tropical vacations and old men who also wear socks with sandals.

Oh, and Andy Reid.

Coach is down at the NFL owners meetings in Phoenix, which if you are coming from Kansas City these days, might actually seem like a tropical paradise.

But seriously, I’m thankful Reid is rocking a laid back attitude.

We haven’t had a coach who dressed this awesomely since Chan Gailey.

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Star dropped an article today that was calk full of interesting bits of information, including the claim that the Kansas City Chiefs are done playing in free agency, for now anyway.

From the Star:

After the Chiefs signed four players in the first 24 hours of free agency, Reid indicated no more free-agent additions were imminent.

Now, attention turns to the April 25-27 NFL Draft, in which the Chiefs hold the No. 1 overall selection.

“Who knows what happens from here?” Reid said. “We had this wave here and then we’re going to step back and kind of analyze what’s out there now. Is there a move to be made here or there? Yeah, possibly. But you’re digging in on the draft now.

“It’s important to get ourselves ready for the draft. Both John and I have said this before: That’s kind of where you build your football team. It’s not necessarily through free agency. That’s not what we’re trying to attempt to do.”

Hmmm. I can’t tell what this means. It almost seems like the Star is making a little bit of a jump here saying that the Chiefs are “done for now,” because later they say that Reid said no more signings were “imminent.”

The Chiefs were reportedly in hot pursuit of former Miami Dolphins CB Sean Smith. We haven’t gotten much news on Smith, though reports this morning said that the Philadelphia Eagles were out of the running for his services and that the CB was choosing between three teams, including the Dolphins.

Perhaps what Reid meant was that the Chiefs have made all the offers they are going to make. For instance, KC could have a couple of off the table to guys but may not be actively pursuing any other targets.

I wouldn’t rule out more news coming out of KC in the coming weeks. One thing we do know is that some point, something has to happen with QB Matt Cassel.

What do you think, Addicts? Are the Chiefs done signing free agents?

September 16, 2012; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith (11) passes the ball during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at Candlestick Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

When the Kansas City hired former Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid to be take over the same roll with the Chiefs, Reid delivered a line in his introductory press conference that garnered quite a few laughs.

“I’ve got to find the next Len Dawson,” Reid joked.

Well, Reid did get a new QB in KC but whether or not he is the next Len Dawson is up for debate.

The Chiefs introduced former San Francisco 49ers QB Alex Smith to the media today. During the presser, Reid was asked if he had indeed found the next Len Dawson in Smith.

Reid paused and there was some laughter in the room.

“Well, listen,” Reid Started. “Len Dawson’s sitting right here. Len Dawson’s in the Hall of Fame.” (more laughter) “We’re gonna work on getting Alex into the Hall of Fame.

It was definitely the best moment of the entire press conference. I have to handle it to Reid, he has the best comedic timing of any Chiefs coach since Herm Edwards. I mean, Haley and Romeo were hilarious in their own right but I don’t think it was intentional.

What do you think, Addicts? Will Alex Smith join Len Dawson in the Hall of Fame?

Last week I told everyone that despite speculation that the KC Chiefs might be interested in Alex Smith I was going to ride the “Geno Smith to KC” bandwagon until the wheels fell off. With it now all but certain that Alex Smith will be the next KC QB it appears that my bandwagon ride was short lived. This trade not only caused the wheels to fall off the bandwagon, it likely burnt the whole thing to the ground.

As regular readers may know, my outlook is usually a positive one. I like to take enjoyment out of following the Chiefs (despite their recent efforts to make that impossible) so I don’t usually like to dwell on the bad or the frustrating. There are usually enough voices out there spelling out every misstep the team makes anyway. That having been said, I want to take a second to explain why this trade initially upset me so much.

It’s NOT that I don’t think Alex Smith can be a good NFL starting QB.

It’s NOT that they gave up their #34 draft pick for him (although that does sting).

It’s that the dream of seeing the Chiefs draft a QB that turns into a star and leads them to a Super Bowl has been crushed. I’m 35 years old and have no memory of Todd Blackledge as a Kansas City Chief. The first QB that I remember is Steve DeBerg. That means that in my entire lifetime as a Chiefs fan I have never seen them commit a high draft pick to a QB. I have watched year after year as other teams drafted QBs that eventually led them to championships. I wasn’t thinking that KC would land the next Tom Brady or Peyton Manning in this draft or even the next Andrew Luck or RG3, but the next Eli Manning, Ben Roethlisberger, or Joe Flacco seemed at least possible.

That’s what drafting Geno Smith #1 overall would have been for me. It would have opened the door to the possibility of that dream coming true for the team I loved. Was I confident that Geno would turn into that guy? No, but I was willing to chance that for a shot at greatness. In my opinion the best way to win a Super Bowl is to hit on a big time QB and you can only hit on one if you’re willing to try. This trade meant that for the foreseeable future KC is not willing to risk it. They’re going to play it safe. The realization that this dream is now dead took the wind out my sails. To be honest, it was probably two full days before I even started reading any Chiefs related material again because it was just too depressing for me.

I’d love to sit here and say that I’m over it now. That I no longer feel that way and that I’m now 100% convinced that trading for Alex Smith was the right thing to do, but that would be a lie. I still feel bummed about the loss of possibility that I saw in Geno Smith but now that my “I don’t want Alex Smith! I want our OWN QB!” hissy fit is about over the rational part of my brain is starting to see the possible upside in Alex Smith.

First, Andy Reid and John Dorsey went to the combine and took a really close and hard look at the QBs that are available in this draft. They reportedly met with 8 different QBs while at the combine (Barkley, Bray, Dysert, Glennon, Manuel, Nassib, Smith, and Wilson). After watching these guys on tape, seeing them throw up close at the combine, and meeting with them face to face they went straight back to KC and traded for Alex Smith. That says something to me. Despite all the potential that “I” see in Geno Smith, the Chiefs weren’t interested. The Chiefs would rather have Alex Smith.

The “hissy fit” throwing emotional part of me says that the reason they want Alex over Geno is that they are playing it “safe” and are scared of what might happen if Geno didn’t pan out. However, as days go by the rational part of my brain has started to jump in with a Lee Corso-esque “Not so fast my friend”.

Is picking Alex Smith over Geno Smith really the safe and easy choice? These guys are taking over a team whose fan base flew banners over the stadium in protest over the old regime. This old regime’s #1 crime against the fans was sticking with a QB that they traded a 2nd round pick to get. The fans wore black to the games and left the stadium half empty for most of the season. These fans, the people whose money pays for their multi-million dollar operation are SCREAMING at the top of their lungs for these guys to end the 30 year drought of not drafting our own franchise QB and they still went straight home from the combine and traded for Alex Smith.

These guys aren’t stupid. They had to know that the average fan that was screaming for Scott Pioli to get fired would see the parallels between the Cassel and Smith trades and freak out. They had to know that trading for Alex Smith and having it fail would infuriate the fan base 100 times more than drafting a QB that failed would. Playing a rookie QB would actually be “safer” for their job security because people wouldn’t expect the rookie to be good right away and if he never panned out they’d still get credit with a lot of fans for at least trying.

That tells me that this isn’t about playing it safe. It says to me that these guys honestly believe that Alex Smith has a better chance of leading the Chiefs to a Super Bowl than Geno Smith or any other QB in this draft does.

I may not like that answer, I may not want to agree with that answer, but that’s the only logical explanation that makes sense, and this is coming from a guy that was in a full blown “I WANT MY GENO!!!” hissy fit just a few days ago.

The other thing that the logical part of my brain has started to pick up on is how it’s not just about them not liking the rookie QBs, they actually must see something in Alex Smith that they like. Why you ask? Because John Dorsey and Andy Reid have direct ties to other QBs that I’m sure could have been had for the same deal that they gave San Francisco, those QBs being Matt Flynn and Nick Foles. I know the Eagles have said that they want to keep Foles, but let’s be honest, he doesn’t fit Chip Kelly’s system and had KC offered them the #34 pick they could have taken a QB like EJ Manuel for Kelly to develop behind Mike Vick. Dorsey helped draft Flynn in Green Bay and saw him up close when he was there. Reid drafted Foles just last season and knows what he’s capable of. Despite these personal connections the Chiefs went after Smith. That tells me they see something in him that they think gives them the best chance to win.

So what could that be?

The emotional and ticked off part of me says that it’s to come be a play it safe, game manager, who will just hand the ball off to Jamaal Charles and whose personal contribution to the team will simply be not turning the ball over.

But then that pesky logical side of my brain starts sounding like Lee Corso again.

“Couldn’t they have trained a rookie to hand the ball off and not throw risky passes? Why give up valuable draft picks and enrage the fan base for that?”

I mean they couldn’t possibly think that Alex Smith could actually contribute to winning games, could they? Clearly Smith’s success in SF was all about Jim Harbaugh, Frank Gore, Vernon Davis, and their defense.

That’s what I was thinking until yesterday. Then two things happened, I read THIS blog post from a 49ers fan stating that Alex Smith’s improvement actually started the year before Harbaugh got there when they fired offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye (who KC fans know all about), and then I got an email from my step brother/fellow Chiefs die hard, Cory Zellers (props on the excellent info). The email included some numbers that he had crunched. Here’s a direct quote from his email explaining what he did.

I dug into his (Alex Smith) stats and settled on the last 2 seasons (including post season) plus 2010 after he returned from injury in week 14. This gave me a nice round 32 games (2 seasons).

Ultimately I wanted to take his best play (last 32 games) and ratio the attempts (and remaining stats) up to the average # of attempts for an Andy Reid offense. I know Smith was a “game manager” in SF and Reid has had pass first offenses his whole career. I knew there was going to be a big difference in number of attempts, but I was a little surprised at the results. I pulled together all of Reid’s seasons in Philly and threw out his first year (Pederson and McNabb) to come up with an average season’s passing stats.

I then ratio-ed up Alex Smith’s avg season from the last 32 games from 416 attempts (per season) to 562 attempts (Reid’s avg season). The results were not earth shattering, but I would be pretty happy with a season like that out of Alex Smith.

Here are the results. If you take the completion percentage (63%), yards per attempt (7.5), and percentage of TD passes (4.8%) and interceptions (1.3%) that Alex Smith has had over his past 32 games and increased the attempts to the typical Andy Reid season you get a season that looks like this:

354-562 (63%), 4,189 yards (7.5 YPA), 27 TDs and 7 INTs.

That’s a pretty good season by any standard and that’s what I believe John Dorsey and Andy Reid think they are bringing to Kansas City. For a basis of comparison, the closest QB numbers to that from last season are probably Matt Schaub’s. Schaub went 350-544 (64.3%) for 4,008 yards (7.4 YPA), 22 TDs, and 12 INTs. Would you have been okay if the Chiefs traded their 2nd round pick for Schaub?

I know what some of you are thinking: “Lyle, the reason Smith was able to put up that kind of completion percentage and protect the football is because of the San Francisco run game and defense that their team was built around, if you take them away and put the ball in Smith’s hands 562 times, he’s going to fail!”

I thought so too before I got the email above. I started thinking about Reid’s offense. Reid is often criticized for not running the ball enough, so it’s safe to say that Smith isn’t going to be following the same “run the ball and play defense” mentality that they had in San Francisco. He’s going to have the ball in his hands more. It got me thinking about another QB that switched teams under similar circumstances at a similar point in his career. This QB was seen as a solid starter but was let go because the team had a young QB that was seen as having a greater upside. In his two seasons directly before leaving he averaged 450 attempts per season, about 3,368 yards/season, had about a 65% completion percentage, and averaged 7.5 yards per attempt. Those numbers are pretty similar to what Smith has done over his past 32 games played. This QB went to a new team with a chip on his shoulder and a coach that built his offense around his abilities and his attempts jumped up to 554 in his first season with the new team and he threw for 4,418 yards which was over 800 yards more than his previous career high. Overnight he went from being “just an average NFL QB that lacks the elite talent to win Super Bowls” to one of the most prolific passers in NFL history, and eventually a Super Bowl champion. That QB is Drew Brees.

At this point I have probably lost all credibility with some of you who are now laughing at what an unbelievable Kool Aid drinking homer I am. Let me be clear, I am not saying I think Alex Smith is going to turn into Drew Brees. I’m not even saying I think Alex Smith will be successful in KC. I’m saying I think Dorsey and Reid think Smith will be successful in KC. I’m saying that I don’t think they are bringing Smith here to be Matt Cassel 2.0 or to just be some “play it safe” place holder who can help KC float around .500 while they wait to find the REAL franchise QB that they can win playoff games with. I think their plan is to make Alex Smith KC’s version of Drew Brees as apposed to KC’s version of Brad Johnson or Trent Dilfer.

I don’t know if this will work and we’ll win a lot of games with Smith or if he’ll go down in flames like Matt Cassel did.

The idea of Alex Smith becoming the next Drew Brees is probably just a dream, crazy talk. But is it any more unrealistic than the idea of Brees becoming one of the most prolific QBs in NFL history when he left San Diego? Wouldn’t most experts have said that Brees wasn’t capable of doing it? Wouldn’t they have said that his success in San Diego had more to do with Norv Turner, LaDanian Tomlinson, and Antonio Gates than Brees’ ability to play QB? Is Dorsey and Reid’s plan of building a Super Bowl winning team around Alex Smith any more crazy than my dream of them turning Geno Smith into the next Aaron Rodgers?

Look, I’m still bummed that they won’t be drafting Geno Smith with the first overall pick. I’m still stinging from the loss of that dream (and the #34 pick). I still have my doubts about Alex Smith being a QB that can take KC to where they want to go, but once I came to the conclusion that Alex Smith was not brought here to be the next Matt Cassel (a QB that the team had to work around) and that John Dorsey and Andy Reid must see Alex Smith as a QB that they can build around it at least made the future a lot more interesting. Once again I’m back to waiting anxiously for the next breaking Chiefs news to hit so I can see what else the team has planned.

That’s a start. It’s certainly an improvement over the “hissy fit” I was throwing a few days ago.

So where are you at Addicts? Still in “hissy fit” mode like I was? Excited to see what Smith can do? Taking a wait and see approach? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

As always, thanks for reading and GO CHIEFS!!!!!!!!!!!

Kansas City Chiefs GM John Dorsey and head coach Andy Reid preside over a Chiefs Kingdom that is as unstable and divided as perhaps any other time in the last two decades. Matters became even more complicated yesterday when the news broke that the team has decided to hitch its wagon to 49ers QB Alex Smith, for the foreseeable future.

The 2012 season was all about change, as far as Chiefs fans were concerned. The KC faithful wanted a new QB, a new coach and a new GM.

And they got them.

Yet, among a fan base that protested so aggressively for change in 2012, going so far as to fly banners over Arrowhead Stadium before games, no amount of change seems to be good enough.

As editor of this site, I interact with dozens of Chiefs fans on a daily basis, whether it be in the comments of our posts, on our Facebook page or through our Twitter account. In the recent weeks since the arrival of  Dorsey and Reid, I’ve noticed that Chiefs fans seem to still be feeling a great deal of discontent.

Just weeks ago, all KC fans seemed to want was for former GM Scott Pioli to be fired and for incumbent starting QB Matt Cassel to be sent out of town. The once patient and supportive fans, many of whom proudly wrote or stated the words “in Pioli we trust” in 2009 and 2010, turned on the new regime in 2012 when it became clear that their trust was misguided.

Unlike in 2009, when long-time GM Carl Peterson and bumbling head coach Herm Edwards were ousted from Kansas City, Chiefs fans haven’t been as quick to cozy up to Dorsey and Reid as they were to Pioli and Haley. Peterson had been a fixture in Kansas City for so long that any replacement was likely to be given a hero’s welcome. So when Scott Pioli came riding into town, his Super Bowl rings glistening in the sunlight, the smooth-talking GM from New England was able to interject a fair amount of propaganda into the minds of his new subjects.

Pioli quickly injected buzzwords and slogans into the Chiefs blogosphere and radio airwaves by repeating his mantras over and over and by making a few well-position contacts in the media. By 2012, you would have been hard-pressed to find a fan that hadn’t heard the words “right 53″ and “process” and “substance over sizzle” from either Pioli himself or their fellow fans.

I even wrote a column about the seemingly blind Scott Pioli following in May of 2011.

It was called “In Pioli We Trust: A Ridiculous Notion.”

Look, there is nothing wrong with trust. There is nothing wrong with initially deferring to the expertise of the guys getting paid to make the decisions. There is nothing wrong with being passionate and hoping that every move your GM makes is the right one. Fan is short for fanatic. This website is called Arrowhead ADDICT. We get it.

But to go around muttering “In Pioli We Trust” after every move the man makes is not only short sighted but it closes one off to any sort of useful critical thinking. Attacking another fan and questioning their devotion to their favorite team because they dared question the organization’s moves is the same kind of childish bullying you’d expect to find at your local junior high.

Chiefs Nation has come a long way since 2011. The pendulum has swung so far in the other direct that it appears nothing will satisfy Chiefs fans.

In fact, the fans seem so split on what they think the new regime should do to fix the 2014 mess Pioli and last year’s head coach Romeo Crennel left behind, that if left in the hands of the masses, the QB for the 2013 Kansas City Chiefs would be:

Nobody.

We like to look at things from every angle on Arrowhead Addict. It’s been a tradition on this site since the beginning to explore different viewpoints and scenarios. This offseason, however, while some of our suggested scenarios are more popular than others, there doesn’t seem to be a single solution that most fans agree on.

To illustrate this, I took to Twitter to ask the opinions of fans on a number of Chiefs-related topics. Keep in mind that I did this just hours before the Alex Smith trade was announced.

The Chiefs should draft Geno Smith #1.

@arrowheadaddict there is no better option!!!

— Jerry Mason (@J_rome101) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict if they can’t get Alex Smith for a reasonable trade, you’ve got to. What other options do we have? We can draft a QB later

— Cody Breuer (@1509Cody) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict absolutely love the idea! He looked like a stud at #NFLCombine sound like he got intangibles to give away!!

— Joey Butler (@rabidcop109) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Atrocious.

— Cameron Hastings (@CameronHastings) February 27, 2013

 

@arrowheadaddict as long as that means keeping Albert then do it!!

— Jason P (@jpp_77) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict 6’2, average accuracy, Alex smith fits our offense perfectly, and we have more major needs (LT, CB, WR) — Joe Mike Favoroso (@Favoroso10) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I’d rather the Chiefs draft Tyler Wilson in the second-round. I see a lot of upside with Wilson. — Brandon Fix (@xX_Flash_Xx) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict sure he ran a good 40 time, but he played his last year in the big 12, all offense and no defense. Had 1 great game.

— Cameron Hastings (@CameronHastings) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict seems like the top of the draft is filled with bad ideas…hence wanting to trade out, and nobody wanting to trade up.

— TheFilmRoom (@TheFilmRoom) February 27, 2013

Should the Chiefs trade for Alex Smith? As long as they don’t give up a pick higher than a 3rd?

@arrowheadaddict I’ve moved around to “No.” Too big of a contract for a back-up. Not good enough player to be the long-term starter. — Nicholas Clayton (@ClaytonNicholas) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict 3rd is the max I’d give.I wish they could part with him for just a 4th. — Edward Pendleton (@TenEightEP) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict yes! Then draft McCarron, Wilson, or Murray later in the draft.

— Cody Breuer (@1509Cody) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict do it.

— levy (@molevy24_7) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Reid would get him to his ceiling. If they believe that ceiling is a consistent pro-bowler (even Cassel made it once) do it — Edward Pendleton (@TenEightEP) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict nope, too much is needed this year (OL, CB, LB), possibly a 4th round pick though — They Love Nosa (@EkeTheGreat3) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict no…I think Kolb has a chance to be cut…and UFA stop gaps like Campbell, Hasselbeck may be available.

— TheFilmRoom (@TheFilmRoom) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Dude has zero swagger, zero heart, zero leadership abilities. I dont like him at all.Chiefs fans will be very disappointed

— ♠ESSESS♌ (@scooterloc303) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Alex smith isn’t a great QB. I’d rather us draft geno and take Matt Moore from Miami — K. Sparks(@Sully_sparks) February 27, 2013

Even for a third, it was clear that a fair portion of the folks I talked to were not sold on Alex Smith. So when the news broke that Smith had been acquired for what is believed to be a second-round selection and 2013 and what could turn into a second-round selection in 2014, there was a fair amount of outrage.

I then asked folks if they trusted Andy Reid and John Dorsey to make the right decision. Here are some of the responses I received.

Do you trust John Dorsey and Andy Reid to make the right decision, no matter what they decide?

@arrowheadaddict Yes.I trust them to make the right decision…

— David Thresher (@Dazdpgc329) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I’m hesitantly optimistic — FanmanKC (@fanmankc) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I have no clue, I treated poili when he started, never Haley though — Sean Combrink(@seancombrink) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict As long as they at least draft a QB in the first 3 rounds, plus adding a veteran.

— Kevin Reed (@Reedk12) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I trust in no one, no matter what they decide. They get the benefit of the doubt, and I will watch with healthy skepticism.

— Nicholas Clayton (@ClaytonNicholas) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Yes.Let it all play out before jumping to conclusions. — Ryan Schave (@Schave29) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I trust them mistakes will be made no matter the staff though gotta give faith in our management or they will never succeed — Carl Meck (@carlmeck1) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict what was the point in hiring them if we don’t trust them? They’ll do what’s right.

— Alex Boyer (@AlexBoyer90) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict no…eagles were awful, Reid thinks he can win with any QB

— K. Sparks(@Sully_sparks) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict more than Pioli, yes, yes, yes. — Adrian Waller (@awaller1990) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict no…that’s too much to ask…they will make mistakes, as early as this draft…hope averages in their favor. — TheFilmRoom (@TheFilmRoom) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict you don’t give trust away for free. It must be earned.

— charlieg (@funderpunt) February 27, 2013

Do you trust Dorsey and Reid as much as you trusted Pioli and Haley when they arrived?

@arrowheadaddict Same

— Kevin Reed (@Reedk12) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Reid=more; Dorsey=slightly less. Pioli was more highly regarded coming in…proven wrong later. — Jeffrey B. Herman (@JBHermanMD) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I’ve been wronged. I’ll never trust again. — Nicholas Clayton (@ClaytonNicholas) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I trust Reid more than Crennel. I respect Dorsey more than Pioli…I wouldn’t call it trust yet.

— Scott Mahurin (@Esinem79) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict more for Reid over Haley. About same for Dorsey & Pioli

— Nate Taylor (@taylonr) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I do trust them, but being a Kansas City sports fan makes me skeptical of everything if I’m honest — Jeff Herr (@TheJeffReport) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict let me change my vote to a flat NO. I can’t get my head around his contract. $7.5M too much for Cassel 2.0 — Scott Mahurin (@Esinem79) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict less because I thought Pioli was a genius when hired. Boy was I wrong!

— Joshua Yates (@joshujy) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict back then I felt like I HAD to trust since Pioli represented the Patriot Way, even though I loathe the Pats

— Adrian Waller (@awaller1990) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Dorsey seems like pioli to me. Never tells us what we want to hear. Very low key. Not a fan — Louie Thompson (@Louie_Thompson) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict in the back of my head, yes, but at the same time dorsey has done nothing as GM of the Chiefs for me not to trust him. — levy (@molevy24_7) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict We’ve been burned before. It’s always good to be a little cautious, but it shouldn’t stop you from being optimistic either.

— Mike (@vidae01) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I’m more cautious now because I feel like a spouse that just got cheated on. It’s hard to trust.

— Michael Tavis (@MichaelTavis) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict more cautious now b/c of Pioli debacle and lack of consensus top pick. — Jeffrey B. Herman (@JBHermanMD) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict more. Greater history/track record of success — Jeff Herr (@TheJeffReport) February 27, 2013

Who do you want to be the starting QB of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013?

@arrowheadaddict I want Ryan Mallett! Screw Alex Smith, do you remember hay we did to him when he came to arrowhead? #NoThanks

— Spencer Mathews (@DiSpencer4Hire) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Geno Smith

— Ted Glass (@TedGlassKC) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Geno Smith. — Mike (@vidae01) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Smith. Alex Smith. — levy (@molevy24_7) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Barkley or Alex Smith

— Kevin Reed (@Reedk12) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict #A.Smith

— Da #Chiefsnation (@Chieffan28) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Geno. — Edward Pendleton (@TenEightEP) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Smith, either Alex or Geno. — Carl Meck (@carlmeck1) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict nick foles

— Grant White (@grantwhiteshark) February 27, 2013

Aaron Rodgers “@arrowheadaddict: Last one. Just give me a name. Who do you want to be the starting QB of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013.”

— K. Sparks(@Sully_sparks) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Alex smith with geno as the back up.

— Michael Tavis (@MichaelTavis) February 27, 2013

Matt Cassel – @arrowheadaddict: Last one. Just give me a name. Who do you want to be the starting QB of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013.

— Chris Allen (@CA_AllDay702) February 27, 2013

The group seemed to slightly favor Geno Smith, which is understandable. Chiefs fans have seen just about every scenario, save drafting a first round QB, fail miserably in Kansas City. They’ve seen a parade of former San Francisco QBs brought in, only to fail. They’ve seen a high-profile trade for Matt Cassel fail. Drafting a QB in the first round, just to draft a QB in the first round, isn’t guaranteed to pay off. While Chiefs fans are smart enough to realize that, much like when Pioli replaced Carl Peterson, I think things have been so bad that anything different automatically becomes more appealing.

As the comments above showed, nobody is running around saying “in Dorsey I trust.” The fans want to believe the men running their favorite team are going to do the right but years of failure seems to have tempered expectations.

When Scott Pioli traded a second-round selection for Matt Cassel and Mike “intangibles” Vrabel, the reaction in KC was mostly positive. There were murmurs of the “draft your own QB”  argument but for the most part, as I recall anyway, fans were excited about the possibility of acquiring a franchise QB in Cassel.

Dorsey and Reid aren’t like to be given the same level of fan patience that their predecessors enjoyed. Pioli and Cassel were able to turn in a 2-14 season in 2009 and they emerge relatively unscathed. I think this was, in large part, due to Pioli’s propaganda and the misguided trust of a frustrated fan base. Chiefs fans were sold a bill of goods by Pioli that they had to be patient while he “rebuilt” their team. They were asked to allow the “process” to run its course.

Well, when the process was complete, Pioli left the Chiefs exactly how he found them.

2-14.

Just as Pioli and co. received their fair share of unearned trust, Reid and Dorsey are being served up a cold dish of apprehension from Chiefs fans who have eaten at this restaurant before.

I don’t envy the new regime. They were facing a lose/lose situation.

If they drafted a QB No. 1 and the QB busted, they would have look like fools for reaching for the position when all the experts (well most of them) the 2013 QB class just wasn’t very good.

If they pass on Geno Smith, which it is almost a certainty that they will, and he is drafted by the Raiders a couple picks later and Smith develops into a star, while the KC brass goes with an Alex Smith, they will be driven out of town faster than you can say “Romeo Crennel”

If they had tried to build their team around a second-round QB from a weak QB draft class and fail, they’ll be equally panned as if they had reached for the position at No. 1.

We don’t know exactly how the Alex Smith trade will work out in KC. We don’t know which team will draft Geno Smith and Matt Barkley and we don’t know what kind of careers they and the other QBs in this draft class, will have.

Chiefs fans were so divided on what they thought  Reid and Dorsey should do, there was going to be a sizable portion of them that were upset no matter what happened at the QB position.

I’ve seen plenty of angry tweets and comments calling the new regime a bunch of fools. I’ve also received messages from fans stating their support and trust of the new regime.

Now that Reid and Dorsey’s vision for the Chiefs is beginning to take shape, it is important for fans to take a lesson from the Scott Pioli era. Now isn’t the time  to throw Dorsey and Reid to the wolves based on the failures of the men that have come before them.

On the other hand, Chiefs fans have no choice but to demand that Dorsey and Reid earn the same level of trust that Pioli was given merely for showing up four years ago. Trust earned, not simply for doing something new, like selecting a QB in the first round, or through propaganda-laced catch phrases and buzzwords. Trust earned, not simply because they aren’t the Scott Pioli regime and because Alex Smith isn’t Matt Cassel.

They’ll have to earn their trust the old-fashioned way: by winning.

Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

The 2013 NFL Scouting Combine is underway in Indianapolis and it seems everyone, from former Chiefs general managers Scott Pioli and Carl Peterson to former Colts GM Bill Polian, wants to weigh in on what Kansas City should or shouldn’t do with the No.1 pick n the 2013 NFL Draft.

Polian talked with Adam Teicher of the Kansas City Star and told the Chiefs beat reporter that Kansas City general manager John Dorsey and head coach Andy Reid should be careful not to reach for a QB with the No.1 pick in the draft.

Like most other folks, Polian thinks going with the best available player, regardless of position, is the way to go.

What Polian did say was that the Chiefs have a great developer of QBs in head coach Any Reid.

Nobody develops quarterbacks better than Andy Reid. So rest assured you’ve got the right guy. Whatever decision he makes will be the right one. He’ll find a quarterback. It doesn’t need to be the first guy in the draft.

Now it all comes down to Andy Reid. A lot of Chiefs fans I’ve talked to really want KC to select QB Geno Smith No.1 overall. Yet most NFL folks we are covering seem to be indicating that the Chiefs should avoid taking a QB if he isn’t the best player on their board.

The good news, if you are in the “take a QB #1 camp” is that these same experts saying the Chiefs might want to avoid selecting a QB No.1, also seem to think the Chiefs will end up with productive QB play no matter what happens, thanks to Andy Reid.

I sure hope they’re right.

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid joined NFL Path to the Draft today on NFL Network live from the 2013 NFL Combine. One of the experts on the Path to the Draft panel was former Chiefs GM Scott Pioli.

Reid was seated right next to Scott and as you can imagine, it was a trip to Awkward Town. Population 2.

Pioli helped get things going by touching Reid on the arm while making a weird joke about his (Pioli’s) daughter toilet-papering Reid’s new house in KC.

Then Reid was asked about his initial press conference in KC. Shortly after being introduced to the KC media, Reid was asked about the QB position.

Well, we’re in the process. That’s the key to that question. We’ve looked at the QBs that are in house. I like a couple of those guys. I know that you can win with a couple of those guys. We’re in the process of going through the free agents and looking at them and these kids that are in the draft. Any trade possibilities, we keep all that wide open. It is a process. It is a process. A very important position.

Reid went on to relive his “we need to find the next Len Dawson” joke before our boy Scott Pioli jumped in.

I’ll tell you, regardless of whether that QBs in-house or that QB comes from outside of work? that QB position is going to be better because Andy’s there. Andy and his staff, they’ve done a great job. You look back, you had Donovan but they’ve had other QBs that were good players that became better. He and his staff and his people have developed QBs, they just do a great job with it. So whether that guy’s in-house or out, that doesn’t matter They’re going to do a great job with it. They really are.

Translation: PLEASE KEEP MY BOY MATT CASSEL AND MAKE HIM LOOK AMAAAAAAZING.

Reid ignored that and instead fielded a question about how much he likes the current Chiefs roster.

I like the guys. Scotty did a great job of bringing in guys that can play and help you win football games.

Nice! Scotty Pioli. We’re rolling with that from now on.

Reid went on.

Listen the guys that we have I now are good football players. So what you do is you go in and evaluate the whole picture and it’s important that you do that. That’s what we’re doing now. Thank goodness we have time to do that. That’s what this whole process is about. We’re sitting here at the Combine in Indianapolis and this is part of the whole. And so you go through this process and you have a chance to meet these kids and talk to them, like we did at the Senior Bowl and you take the next step when you have the individual interviews with them and so on. So it’s kind of a neat deal.

Next one of the hosts droned on for a while about how Andy Reid knows everything about every high school football program in California. Then, finally, we got to Geno Smith.

Here is Reid:

I haven’t met him so I’ll have an opportunity do do that down here. I’ve had a chance to look at his tape and he’s a heck of a football player. Now I have this opportunity down here to look at him eye to eye and introduce ourselves to each other and get our ten minutes of talk with one another.

Next Reid was asked if there were some specific things Reid wanted to learn about Smith. Reid took the opportunity to use the word “process” again for the 300th time, which of course had Scotty Pioli, who has an “It’s A Process” tramp-stamp tattoo on his lower back, just beaming with pride.

Again, there’s a process that you go through so really, out of that 15 minute period or whatever it is, what is it Scott? 15 minutes, by the time the scout gets done with the and the position coach gets done with them and your General Manager, you’ve got maybe five minutes with them. So you keep your ears open and you listen. You like to hear some background on him, where he came from, what he’s about, what went on during his season this past year at West Virginia. And then see how he would see himself fitting in to our program.

The Scotty dropped some more knowledge on all us fools.

Andy’s right. That 15-minute window (Here Pioli snapped his fingers) closes quickly. I mean it’s, from the time you, you never get the full 15 minutes. I mean we used to train our scouts to make sure they got the guys in quick, get them out quick, get out of the room, get settled. We don’t let them shake hands with one or two guys because you gotta get down. That’s one of their tricks, too. They try to shake hands with as many of these guys as they can to cut down the interview time.

Then Scotty puckered up.

I know this, you’ve got a heck of a staff there. John (Dorsey) is great and the rest of the staff that’s there, great people that are going to do a very thorough job.

Then, then Scotty Pioli said something that made the collective heads of every Chiefs fan watching live, explode.

So whatever ends up happening, don’t be so locked in the QB. We were talking about it, he’s (Pioli’s co-host Paul Burmeister) so locked in on this QB thinkg. There’s a whole lot of other football players out there, Paul.

Then Reid said:

There are Paul. But it’s…it is an important position. I understand where he’s coming from. I got it. We’ve just got to go through this whole process.

Sure, Pioli appeared to be joking about the whole QB thing but just to see him actually say the words “don’t worry about the QB” was probably enough to drive even the most light-hearted Chiefs fan temporarily insane with rage.

Not a whole ton of useful information here but it was high comedy (for me at least) to see Pioli sitting there with Reid while Reid talked about trying to clean up the mess Pioli left in KC.

I think it is safe to say that most Kansas City Chiefs fans approve of the Andy Reid hiring. I think one of the things that most fans like about Reid is his history of getting the most out of his QBs. There are a lot of opinions out there on what the Chiefs should do at QB next season, but even though there isn’t a consensus as to who the QB should be, there does seem to be a general trust in Reid’s opinion on the matter. In other words, a lot of KC fans seem to be taking an “I want (insert QB here) to be the QB next season, but ultimately I’ll trust Reid’s opinion on the matter” approach.

My question is, just how much trust do you have in Reid’s decision of who will be his QB?

Will you trust it even if he goes with your absolute last choice?

The recent quotes by Tamba Hali got me thinking, will you still trust his judgement even if he decides to go with Matt Cassel?

Now, let me start by saying that this is NOT a pro-Matt Cassel post. I don’t want Matt Cassel to be on the Chiefs roster next year, let alone starting games for the team I love. I’ve firmly established myself on the Geno Smith bandwagon, but if it’s not Geno I still hope they identify the QB that they feel is the best in this draft and take him first overall. I don’t care if it’s seen as a “reach” or “good value”. We need a QB and have a chance to get the best one in this class, there is value in that regardless of wether or not this year’s top QB is as good as previous #1 overall picks. That’s MY opinion. I know a lot of you agree and I know several of you do not. I’m not here to sway you to my opinion on drafting a QB #1 overall this week. I just wanted to clearly state for the record that I am NOT in favor of Matt Cassel being the starting QB so please don’t fill the comments section with angry rants about what an idiot I am for still backing Cassel.

Now that I have that on the record, let me lay out my “doomsday” scenario where Matt Cassel could be the opening day starter in 2013. This scenario starts with Reid breaking my heart and deciding that he doesn’t like a single QB in this draft enough to draft them with the first overall pick. He may pick one in the 2nd or 3rd round, but he doesn’t feel that they will be ready to start from day one as a rookie. That means that Reid will need a veteran to man the position until the rookie is ready. The options available to him will include keeping a current Chief like Cassel or Brady Quinn, acquiring a veteran from another team like Alex Smith, Matt Flynn, Mike Vick, or Nick Foles, or signing a free agent like Matt Moore or Jason Campbell. It’s also possible that Smith, Flynn, Vick, or Foles could be released by their current team for salary cap issues and would then be available via free agency but obviously their current teams would prefer to get something for them.

So in this scenario the first decision Reid has to make is if there are any free agent QBs that are better than Matt Cassel available. If none of the QBs currently under contract are released then this is debatable. I guess I would take Matt Moore over Matt Cassel just to have someone different, but do I have any faith that he is a better player? Not really. Their career numbers make them look like the same guy.

Matt Cassel: 58.9%, 6.6 YPA, 82 TDs, 57 INTs
Matt Moore: 59.1%, 6.9 YPA, 33 TDs, 26 INTs

Cassel is two years older and has many more starts, but there is very little evidence that Reid would be foolish to pass on Moore to keep Cassel who is already on his roster. So even though I don’t want Cassel around I’d have a hard time bashing Reid if he kept Cassel around instead of bringing in someone from this incredibly weak QB free agent group. Now, if Alex Smith were to be released and they could get him signed for a contract that was equal or less than Cassel’s I’d be strongly in favor of signing Smith, not because I think he’s clearly better than Cassel, but because he’d get a fresh start here and wouldn’t have the negative stigma attached to him that Cassel does.

While we’re on the subject of Alex Smith, let’s use him as the focus of our discussion on if they should trade for a veteran QB. If Chip Kelly decides Nick Foles doesn’t fit his offense and would like to deal him he’d be my first choice to trade for since he is young enough to be a possible QB of the future. After Foles though, Alex Smith is considered the next best option. I’ve already said that I would strongly be in favor of signing Smith if he was a free agent and Reid wanted a veteran starting QB, but would he be worth trading for? What if San Francisco wants a 2nd/3rd round pick for him? Is the difference between Smith and Cassel worthy of a valuable draft pick? Before you answer that, look at these three sets of numbers. First Cassel and Smith’s career numbers:

Matt Cassel: 58.9%, 6.6 YPA, 82 TDs, 57 INTs
Alex Smith: 59.3%, 6.6 YPA, 81 TDs, 63 INTs

Over the course of their careers these two are the same guy. Next, let’s look at their numbers over the past two seasons:

Matt Cassel: 58.8%, 6.4 YPA, 16 TDs, 21 INTs (in 18 games)
Alex Smith: 64.3%, 7.4 YPA, 30 TDs, 10 INTs (in 25 games)

Now that is a huge difference. If Andy Reid thinks that this difference is reflective of Cassel and Smith’s abilities then he very well may feel that trading for Smith would be worth while (I’m still not in favor of trading a 2nd/3rd rounder, maybe a 4th/5th). However, what if Reid thinks that Smith’s success was more of a factor of the coaching and stability that he received under Jim Harbaugh compared to his previous coaching staffs? What if we were to compare Smith’s two good seasons under Harbaugh to Cassel’s two good seasons under McDaniels and Weiss? Here’s what those numbers look like:

Matt Cassel: 61.0%, 7.0 YPA, 48 TDs, 18 INTs (31 games)
Alex Smith: 64.3%, 7.4 YPA, 30 TDs, 10 INTs (25 games)

Now we’re looking a little more comparable. Cassel is still behind Smith in completion percentage, YPA, and INTs but the difference is much smaller and Cassel actually has a sizable lead in TDs. When looking at these numbers, its not out of the question that Reid could think that these two are similar enough that it wouldn’t be worth giving up a draft pick in order to get Smith when he already has Cassel on the roster. Especially if he thinks he can have his draft pick ready to take over in a short amount of time.

So hear’s the question, is the current difference between Smith and Cassel reflected in their career numbers and numbers when they’ve received good coaching which are VERY similar or are they reflected in the numbers from the past two seasons which make Smith out to be the vastly superior QB?

The question is NOT which QB would Chiefs fans rather have. We all know the answer there would be Smith hands down (if they are the only two options). Andy Reid doesn’t have the negative stigma attached to Matt Cassel that we all do. I’m sure he knows that going with Cassel wouldn’t go over well, but ask yourself this “If Reid feels that Cassel and Smith are basically the same guy and the 49ers won’t release him, is it worth trading away a draft pick just to make us happy?”

As much as I DON’T want Cassel to be the starting QB next season I don’t think I want a head coach or GM that would trade away draft picks for the sole purpose of keeping their approval polls looking good either. Especially if he’s only looking for a short term solution until he grooms his next young QB. Of course he could avoid this situation all together by just drafting Geno Smith first overall and starting him from day one, but I digress.

So I’m putting the question out there to you guys. How much trust do you have in Andy Reid when it comes to the QB position? If he goes with someone you are strongly apposed to (be it Cassel or a free agent or draft pick you don’t like) will you still have faith? If he went with Cassel as a short term answer while he groomed a 2nd round draft pick would that effect how much you followed/supported the team? Maybe a better way to ask it is which runs deeper, your faith in Andy Reid with QBs or your hatred of Matt Cassel as the Chiefs QB?

I’m anxious to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

As always, thanks for reading and GO CHIEFS!!!!!!!!!

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs may have hired former QB Doug Pederson to be their offensive coordinator but on game day, it will be Andy Reid calling the plays.

From the Kansas City Star: 

Reid also said he would call the offensive plays instead of coordinator Doug Pederson. But he said Pederson was ready to be a coordinator even though he has coached in the NFL for just four seasons.

“He’s a sharp kid,” Reid said of Pederson, who played quarterback in the NFL for 12 seasons. “He was in charge of the quarterbacks. Doug is a good student. I’ve watched his leadership on the field. I’ve watched his ability to teach. I’ve watched the respect the players have for him. All of those things checked out. He’s a creative guy. He knows this offense like the back of his hand. He knows protections, he knows situational calls.”

Not totally sure how I feel about this. Chiefs fans may remember when former head coach Todd Haley was hired, he called offensive plays himself and it was pretty much disaster.

Still, Reid is a much more experienced coach than Haley.

What do you think, Addicts? Do you feel more comfortable with Reid calling plays or should he focus on being a head coach and allow Pederson to take the reigns?

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs will continue to run the 3-4 defense, according to new head coach Andy Reid.

This has been a big question from fans who are well aware that Reid’s Philadelphia Eagles ran the 4-3 defense. But Reid says the Chiefs are already invested in the 3-4.

“There’s been time invested in the 3-4 here,” Reid said. “The 3-4 gives you some flexibility. I’ve run both (defensive systems). I’ve been involved in both so I understand how they were. The 4-3 is good if you have the right coaches in place and the team is invested in it. But this team here is invested in the 3-4, so let’s continue to build it and get better at it.”

The Chiefs recently hired former New York Jets linebackers coach, Bob Sutton. Sutton also served as defensive coordinator for three years with the Jets. New York runs the 3-4.

Reid says Sutton’s experience with the defense was a big factor in his hire.

“(Sutton is) able to keep the keep the integrity of the defense as far as the 3-4 goes,” Reid said. “Bob knows the 3-4 and he knows it well.”

I am thrilled with this decision and I think it shows that the Chiefs have a smart coach on their hands. One thing that has always bothered me with new coaches/general managers is that they often try to cram their own system down the throat of the organization. While that is understandable, to a point, I think a wise coach also knows how to adapt and adjust his system to fit the personnel he already has.

The Chiefs defense, while not perfect, has a number of talented players. Tamba Hali and Derrick Johnson, while they have both played in the 4-3, have had their best years as professionals in the 3-4. Justin Houston, who will be entering his third season in 2013, has played in the 3-4 defense since his last year of college. Houston is already a very good player and could be on the verge of developing into a superstar. Switching defenses on him now could really damage Houston’s progress.

Sutton’s defense figures to be different than Crennel’s system but the learning curve won’t be nearly as steep as if the Chiefs were changing their base set all together.

What do you think, Addicts? Is Reid making the right call by keeping the 3-4?

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs have hired Andy Reid to be their next head coach and while most fans are probably familiar with their new coach’s win/loss record in Philadelphia, they may not be as familiar with his coaching style.

That is why we thought we’d hook you up with this great behind the scenes look at Reid coaching.

Here is a segment from the NFL Network show “Sound FX.”

Take a look:

A lot of people, myself included, think poor coaching was the #1 reason why the Chiefs were so bad in 2012. In the wake of coach Reid putting together most of his coaching staff, it will be interesting to see if the new regime can truly turn things around in a short period of time.

What do you think?

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has been making the media rounds this week and yesterday he appeared on Pro Football Talk Live with Mike Florio.

Reid reiterates most of the points he has already made as far as his draft philosophy. Reid seems to be a best player available kind of drafter. That said, the new head coach is known for saying next to nothing in his interviews and press conferences so we may not have a really clear idea of what he is thinking until he actually starts making picks.

Anyway, it is a decent interview and certainly worth checking out. Props as always to PFT for sharing their content.

Breaking sports news video. MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL highlights and more.

We’ve got you an inside look at Reid’s first day on the job. How does “Big Red” look in Chiefs red?

Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs introduced “Big Red” Andy Reid as their new head coach on Monday afternoon. It wasn’t the longest of press conferences but he said enough to gain a few insights into what might be ahead.

Here are 5 takeaways from the first official day of the Andy Reid era:

1. The Hunt family name still has luster

One thing Andy Reid made abundantly clear in his introductory interviews was that his appreciation for the Hunt family and the Hunt name was a big factor in his being interested in coaching in Kansas City.

Despite some of the bad press the team has gotten in recent seasons under Scott Pioli, it appears as though in NFL circles at least, Clark Hunt is still a very well respected member of the NFL family. There was some concern that when Pioli was in the picture, that big name free agents (Peyton Manning) and head coaching candidates (Jeff Fischer) were scared away from getting involved with the Chiefs. The hiring of Reid and Reid’s praise of the Hunt family bodes well for the organization moving forward.

2. KC May Not Take A QB #1 Overall

I hesitated to put this on the list because it is what I expected Reid to say but “Big Red” made it clear a couple of different times during his interviews today that he was concerned with making the “right” choice with his first round draft pick. Reid mentioned that often teams press for picks, especially when they are in need of a QB. He cautioned against making a mistake in that department. Later, while talking with Mitch Holthus, Reid mentioned that there were plenty of places the team could get a QB like in a trade or free agency…or even on the roster right now (year, right).

The important thing to remember here is that most of this is coach-speak. Reid likely has no idea what he is going to do with the first pick right now so he is exhibiting caution when speaking about what the team will do with the #1 pick. Reid may not have a plan in place just yet but he is smart enough to know how starved this Kansas City fan base is for a home-grown QB. He made it clear that that he is going to try to make the “right pick” but I guarantee you if Reid and company think one of the QBs in this class can be their guy, they’ll take him.

3. The cupboard isn’t bare

Reid was asked a couple of times about his thoughts on the current roster and he was both complimentary and realistic. He admitted that the Chiefs had some talented players and coaches already on board but he also pointed out that the team was currently the worst in the NFL and that there is plenty of work to be done.

You don’t need to be a football coach to look at the Chiefs and see there is plenty of young talent that the new regime can build around. Reid made it clear that his plan was to hold on to that nucleus and continue to add to it.

4. Draft strategy could be best player available

One of the classic draft arguments is whether or not teams should draft for need or if they should draft the absolute best football player available. The way Reid spoke on Monday, it appeared as though he is in the latter camp. I think the Chiefs have enough talent that they can plug many of their “needs” in free agency while stocking up on the best players through the draft. I’d be ok with that strategy and it sounds like Andy Reid is as well.

5. Chiefs could stick with the 3-4

Reid was asked whether or not he planned to switch the team from the 3-4 defense to the 4-3 he ran in Philly. Reid was ready to say that the change would definitely take place.

“I’m evaluating (3-4 or 4-3 defense) that right now. I understand the value in both.”

“There’s been an effort here to bring in players that work in the 3-4 so we’ll look at that and go from there.”

While the end result may be the 4-3, I am glad Reid isn’t forcing his system on the players just yet. Good coaches adapt to suit the talents of their players. I truly feel if Reid thinks he needs to run the 3-4, he’ll do it and that if he runs the 4-3, it will be because he knows his players can pull it off.

All right, Addicts Those are my initial five takeaways from Reid’s first presser. What are yours?

Check out all of our Andy Reid quotes here.

Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs officially introduced their new head coach, Andy Reid, to the media today.

We watched the entire thing live and jotted down a bunch of quotes from Reid and Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt. Keep in mind this is not a full transcript.

“Andy is a proven winner who built an outstanding program in Philadelphia.” -ClarkHunt

“The fan base here is phenomenal.” -Reid

“There’s nothing like the ‘Sea of Red’” -Reid

“It made the decision easy. I crossed my fingers that I’d be offered the job and so, I was.” -Andy Reid

“We’re gonna coach hard and make sure that we build a foundation.” -Andy Reid

“I’ve got to find that next Len Dawson doggonit.” -Andy Reid

“At the end of the meeting on Wednesday I think we had a really good feeling for the direction we were heading.” -Clark Hunt

“The coaches who were here left evaluations of this football team.” -Andy Reid

“I’m ready to go man. This is what I do. I’m ready to go. Never took that (taking time off) into consideration.” -Andy Reid

“I would tell you that there is some good football players on this team. And we need to continue to add to that to build on that.” -Andy Reid

“I’ve gone through and met with all the coaches and I will make that evaluation as we go along.” -Andy Reid

“As far as the general manager goes, I’m leaving that up to Clark.”-Andy Reid

“Scott and I are friends. But that was taken care of before me, between Clark and Scott.” -Andy Reid

“I’m evaluating (3-4 or 4-3 defense) that right now. I understand the value in both.” -Andy Reid

“There’s been an effort here to bring in players that work in the 3-4 so we’ll look at that and go from there.” -Andy Reid

“I want them to see that Sea of Red.” -Andy Reid

“Dick (Vermeil) is a very close friend. He has called me once a week since I’ve been in the National Football League. That’s the kind of person he is.”-Andy Reid

“We’ve been blessed with the #1 pick in the draft. You want to make sure you do the right thing.” -Andy Reid

“I’m glad that 2012 is in the rear view mirror.” Clark Hunt You and me both, Clark.

“Both of us answer to Clark. General manager answers to Clark. I answer to Clark and that’s the way it’s going to be.” -Andy Reid

Hunt and Reid then separately sat down  with Mitch Holthus live on KCChiefs.com:

“They were the easiest 9 hours I’ve ever spent with somebody.” -Clark Hunt on his interview with Andy Reid

“He impressed me in the day or day in a half that he had, to watch all 16 games.” -Clark Hunt

More from Reid:

-”You just know, You’ve been in this business long enough, you know about the Hunt family.”

-”It didn’t take but a phone call and I was there for the interview. I was showing up.”

-”It’s my responsibility that I coach this football team into a winning football team.”

-”They (the fans) want a good football team and they want to support and it’s important that I give that to them.”

-”In reality, the general manager, the head coach, we should all be working together to get the job done.”

-”If you get into the power struggles here and there, it doesn’t work.”

-”Everyone checks their ego at the door.”

-”We’re last in the league right now so we’ve got to build that up.”

-”If you have good coaches and good players, good things happen.”

-”You want to make sure you evaluate the QB position right.”

-”I’ve got to get in and see what the field is out there. We drafted Donnovan with the 2nd pick int he draft. There were a handful of QBs that people thought were pretty good prospects. I’m not that far along in the process yet.”

-”Get good players. Right? Get good football players. You start going ‘I have to have this position’ you’re going to make mintakes. I mean, that’s proven.

-”First of all, I love the Chiefs Kingdom. I love that term. The Sea of Red.”

-”I used to have red hair. I’m kind of into red.”

-”Arrowhead Stadium when it’s packed and rockin’, there’s nothing like it in the league.”

Keep an eye on KCChiefs.com where the full videos of these events will likely be posted soon.

Last Friday, a shot rang out through Chiefs nation – one that meant hope, credibility and a lot of change.

By firing GM Scott Pioli and bringing in head coach Andy Reid, Clark Hunt has set the franchise on an entirely new path.

Firstly, he has done away with the team’s traditional hierarchical structure that seats a powerful general manager above the coaching staff. Make no mistake, going forward, for better or worse, Reid is going to be calling the shots during the offseason, the draft, et cetera.

Four years ago, the Chiefs hired a highly reputed front office wiz from the New England Patriots. Although everyone knows that Bill Belichick is the mastermind behind New England’s success, this guy was a vital cog in his machine and it was believed that the numbers guy could be brought in to reproduce it. That failed, and Hunt learned his lesson. This time around, by hiring Andy Reid, he didn’t get Pioli, he got Belichick.

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Having secured a lucrative contract that gives him wide-sweeping authority, make no mistake, Reid is going to make a lot of changes. He comes with a distinct philosophy, working style and mold for a successful team.

Reid is definitely going to make his imprint on this team during this offseason, which means several players are going to get their walking papers while others are going to see their role increase. We still don’t know exactly who Reid will take on with his staff or whether or not he will be keeping the Chiefs’ 3-4 defense, but judging by the way he built the Eagles, I think we can say which players should be happy and which should be nervous.

Offense

Extremely Happy:

WR’s Steve Breaston, Dexter McCluster and Devon Wylie

Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Andy Reid loves small receivers that are great route-runners. McCluster has come on has an effective slot guy and I have a feeling that Reid will find something to do with Breaston who was criminally underused this season. Meanwhile, Wylie showed up late as another developing tool in the Chiefs passing game.

Happy:

RB Jamaal Charles, LT Brandon Albert

It’s been widely said that Reid doesn’t like to run the ball, but that’s not really true. The Eagles were 19^th in rushing attempts per game this year, 12^th last year and 15^th in 2010. In other words, they’re pretty much in the middle of the pack. Charles will still be getting fewer touches on runs out of the backfield (largely because the Chiefs have been one of the most run-happy teams in the league), but he will make up for that with more screens and quick passes thrown his way per game. Charles is a good route runner and could easily become a faster version of Brian Westbrook.

Reid also highly values the offensive line and doesn’t mind spending big to keep it shored up. This is good news for Albert, whose contract is up.

Extremely Worried:

RB Peyton Hillis and WR’s Jonathan Baldwin and Dwayne Bowe

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Hillis is gone. His fantastic game against the Colts notwithstanding, Hillis was a disappointment, only rushing for 309 yards this season for a 3.6-yard average. Like Hillis, Baldwin and Bowe also don’t really fit Reid’s scheme. Bowe is a great outside, move-the-chains threat, but Reid doesn’t typically utilize such receivers. He prefers getting the ball into the hands of smaller, more dynamic players in the middle that have the chance to make big plays. Baldwin has done next to nothing in the league and doesn’t fit this new mold. Bowe will probably be allowed to walk this offseason in favor of a free agent like Mike Wallace. Baldwin will probably get his last chance to prove his worth in the 2013 preseason.

Defense

Extremely Happy:

S Eric Berry

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Reid made great use of safety Brian Dawkins early in his time in Philadelphia as a jack-of-all-trades blitzer, run stuffer and cover guy. Berry has the physical tools to do the same, and I can’t wait to see the creative ways Reid decides to use him.

Happy:

OLB’s Tamba Hali and Justin Houston

Although nothing is certain at this point, it is likely that Reid will want to move back to a 4-3 defense and use both Hali and Houston as edge rushers on the line. Hali is originally a defensive end and will likely be happy to return. Although Houston has done admirably in picking up coverage skills, I personally think it is a waste to make him drop back on passing downs when he truly excels at getting after the quarterback. In a Reid defense, he likely to be able focus on doing just that.

Worried:

The rest of the front seven

Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Especially if the team abandons the 3-4, DE’s Glenn Dorsey and Tyson Jackson are likely toast. Both are overpaid and underwhelming and I don’t see Reid wanting to keep reinvesting in those projects. Poe will likely stay a bit longer because he is still developing and would likely be effective in a 4-3 as well.

Unfortunately for the guys behind them, Reid has never heavily prized the linebacker position. In his years in Philly, he always invested high picks and free agent signings in defensive linemen and DBs while allowing the linebacking corps to be filled by a revolving door of journeymen.

Although we know Derrick Johnson can excel in the role of a 4-3 middle linebacker, it is still unclear whether Reid will want to pay him big money to continue to do so when his contract is up.

This list will change as we find out more about what Reid plans to do with this team, and I’ll try to keep you all updated as we all find out more.

Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid will address the media for the first time since his hiring this afternoon but meanwhile, the names of possible candidates to fill out Reid’s staff are beginning to emerge.

Reid has a large football family tree so a number of names with Reid connections have been floated already, including former Browns coach Pat Shurmur and former Browns GM Tom Heckert.

Well, now we’ve got another one.

According to Peter King of Sports Illustrated, Eagles QB coach Doug Pederson could be in line to take over for Brian Daboll as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator.

So what’s Andy Reid thinking about his staff in Philadelphia? I’m hearing he’s leaning toward bypassing Marty Mornhinweg as offensive coordinator and naming his Eagles quarterback coach, Doug Pederson, as coordinator. Had he not been kept as Carolina head coach, Ron Rivera would have been in play with Monte Kiffin for defensive coordinator …

Pederson is a former QB. He played in the NFL after being signed as an undrafted free agent by the Miami Dolphins. He spent time with the Panthers, as a backup with the Packers, Eagles and Browns before finishing his career as a backup back in Green Bay. He had short starting stints in Cleveland and Philly when Tim Couch and Donovan McNabb went down to injury. He retired in 2004.

Pederson went on to coach a high school team for four years before being hired by Andy Reid and the Eagles to be their offensive quality control coach in 2009. He was then promoted to quarterbacks coach in 2011.

Pederson has risen quickly, which could indicate that Reid has a tremendous amount of faith in him. Having spent time in Reid’s offensive system, both as a player and a coach should be useful but his lack of experience calling plays at an NFL level is disconcerting. I am all for young coaches getting a shot but I think I’d rather have a play caller with a more proven track record helping to resurrect the Chiefs’ offense, especially if that offense is going to be led by a rookie passer.

Welcome to KC Big Red! Like many fans of the Kansas City Chiefs, I received two slightly late Christmas presents last Friday from Chiefs owner Clark Hunt. First, Hunt “parted ways” with the much maligned GM Scott Pioli and quickly followed with an official announcement of the hiring of the new head coach Andy Reid.

Before I get to my take on the Reid hiring I want to take just a second to talk about Chiefs’ owner Clark Hunt. Simply put, Clark Hunt proved two things to me this week. First, he is not a cheap owner. Does he care about making money? Of course he does, but all of the owners in the NFL have “make money” at or near the top of their priority list. Clark Hunt has had to make two major hires since he took control of the team. Four years ago he made Scott Pioli one of the top paid GMs in the sport and now he has done the same with Andy Reid. Clark Hunt could have fired Pioli and Crennel and replaced them with a MUCH cheaper option than Reid and would still have been a hero to most in KC. Instead, between Reid’s payday and the buyouts of Pioli and Crennel Clark Hunt ponied up a hefty sum to get what he wanted. Which gets me to my second point…

Clark Hunt gets his man. Period.

Four years ago he wanted the best GM on the market, he wanted Scott Pioli. Clark Hunt got him. This year with reports buzzing that Andy Reid was a lock to land the Arizona Cardinals coaching job Clark Hunt stepped in and said “not so fast my friends”. He loaded up his interview party, flew to Philadelphia, and locked Reid up in an airport conference room for nine hours. By the time they were finally done meeting there was nothing left for Reid to do but go home and explain to his wife why they wouldn’t be making that trip to Arizona (where her family lives).

Maybe the Arizona job was more rumor (floated by his agent) than fact. Maybe the speculation that Reid would be a good fit in San Diego (where Reid owns a home) was purely that, media speculation. In the end it didn’t matter because Clark Hunt wasn’t taking any chances. He wanted Reid and he did what he had to do to get him. Four years ago when the Chiefs hired Todd Haley they were one of the last teams to hire their coach. This time Hunt wasn’t settling for anyone’s leftovers. The Chiefs were the first of the seven teams with openings to make their new hire.

I don’t know if Reid will be successful in Kansas City (I’ll tell you what I think will help in a moment). What I do know is that if he isn’t, I now feel confident that the Chiefs have an owner that will go out and get the best man available to replace him if/when that time comes. That’s really the most important quality a fan can ask for in an owner. Kudos to Clark Hunt.

Now on to my thoughts on the Reid hire.

I like it.

I was on the record as wanting Chip Kelly. The main reasons being that I thought he could give our offense the “jump start” that it needed and would be a good fit with Jamaal Charles (our best player) and Geno Smith (the player I want KC to draft #1 overall). The same can be said about Andy Reid. I know people complain he doesn’t run the ball enough, but JC doesn’t need 30 carries a game and I’d be fine if his touches matched those of LeSean McCoy the past couple of seasons under Reid. He may not come with the same “hype” that Kelly has going right now, but he comes with a MUCH bigger proven NFL track record (of which Kelly has none). His specialty is QBs and the passing game and that is where KC needs the most help. They also needed a big enough name to fill both Romeo’s shoes as HC but also fill part of the void left by Scott Pioli as the “head” of the football organization. Once again Reid fills that roll. So I am happy with the hire. (Side Note: with the announcement of Chip Kelly staying at Oregon and no signs that Gruden or Cowher are going to go back to coaching the Reid hire starts to look all the better.)

The question of the hour then becomes will Andy Reid be able to win in KC? I think that will rely on two key decisions that Reid will make in the next 4 months:

Who will be his QB?

and…

Who will be his defensive coordinator?

The QB part of the equation is obvious. We all know KC has been horrible at QB for a while. We all know you need a good QB to win in the NFL. We all know that Andy Reid gets the most out of the QBs that he has. The problem that I have is with the opinion that I am seeing in the national media that KC should pass on a QB in the first round and take one in the 2nd round. The thought being that since Reid has made lesser talent like AJ Feely and Kevin Kolb look good, there is no sense in using the first overall pick to reach for a QB.

I couldn’t disagree more. When were Andy Reid’s Eagle teams really good? The answer, when they had a Pro Bowl caliber QB in Donovan McNabb. A QB that Reid drafted #2 overall when he first arrived in Philadelphia. You can talk all you want about Reid’s family issues and players “tuning him out” because he’d been there so long, but the fact that he was “getting by” with QBs that he was coaching up like Kevin Kolb, Mike Vick, and Nick Foles had just as much to do with it. When was the last time Reid’s Eagles were good? When Mike Vick played at a Pro Bowl level in 2010. I don’t want the Chiefs to draft a Kevin Kolb or Nick Foles that Reid can coach up to “good enough”. Does anyone want our starting QB to be just “good enough” or “someone you can get by with”?

I have absolutely 0% interest in that. I also have 0% interest in trading for Kolb or Matt Flynn to start until Reid can coach up some 2nd or 3rd round pick. I want Reid to draft his McNabb with the first overall pick. I understand that all the “experts” don’t think this draft has an Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III. I don’t care. Nobody thought Donovan McNabb was a sure thing when Reid drafted him. Philly fans HATED the pick at the time, but Reid identified the QB in that draft that had the physical tools to succeed in his system and drafted him. That is exactly what he should do with the Chiefs. I believe that QB will be Geno Smith, but if Reid likes Tyler Wilson or Matt Barkley then I trust Reid’s opinion on the matter way more than my wanna be scout, watching clips on YouTube, Armchair Addict self.

If you’re still not sold on a 1st round QB, I urge you to read THIS ARTICLE by RotoWorld’s Eric Stoner. He went back and looked at 10 years worth of drafts (2001-2010) and the QBs that were drafted in those drafts. He broke the QBs into four tiers: 1.Elite Franchise QBs, 2.Good Starting QBs, 3.Functional QBs, and 4.Backup or Worse.

Of the 13 QBs drafted that Stoner classified in Tiers 1 and 2, 11 of them were drafted in the 1st round of the draft. The only 2 QBs that he classified as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 QB that were drafted after the 1st round were Drew Brees (2nd round) and Matt Schaub (3rd round) and neither of them are playing for the team that drafted them.

Stoner does point out that recent draft picks Andy Dalton and Russel Wilson could help those numbers, but he left the two most recent drafts out of the study because he felt it was too early to judge some of the QBs this soon.

The fact remains that in a decade of NFL drafts from 2001-2010 there were 22 QBs taken in the 2nd and 3rd rounds. Of those 22, only Brees and Schaub were Tier 1 or Tier 2 QBs. That’s 9% of the QBs drafted in that decade. Only four (18%) of the 22 QBs taken in the 2nd/3rd round even made it as a Tier 3 “functional” QB (Kevin Kolb, Chad Henne, Tavaris Jackson, and Colt McCoy). The other 16 QBs (72%) were all backup caliber QBs or complete busts. So history says that if you take a QB in the 2nd/3rd round these are your odds:

1 in 22 (4.5%) will be an elite franchise QB

1 in 22 (4.5%) will be a good starting QB

4 in 22 (18.2%) will be a functional QB

16 in 22 (72.7%) will be a backup or worse

This is why KC MUST draft a QB in the first round, even with Andy Reid as the coach.

How do those odds change if you get the first QB taken in the entire draft? Take a look:

1 in 10 (10%) is an elite franchise QB (Eli Manning)

4 in 10 (40%) are/were good starting QBs (Mike Vick, Carson Palmer, Matt Ryan, Matt Stafford)

2 in 10 (20%) are/were functional QBs (Alex Smith, Sam Bradford)

3 in 10 (30%) are/were backups or worse (David Carr, Vince Young, Jamarcus Russell)

(Keep in mind, those classifications are Stoner’s not mine and one could debate what Tier some of those guys belong on, but it doesn’t change the results drastically)

Now, admittedly history says there is a 50% chance that the first QB taken will only be a functional QB or worse. However, the other side of that is that 50% of the first QBs taken in the draft are either elite or good starting QBs compared to only 9% of 2nd/3rd round QBs. That’s an increase of 41%. Given Reid’s track record with getting the most out of the QBs he has I like KC’s chances of ending up on the good side of that 50/50 split.

Anyone think that might just be part of the reason Clark Hunt made sure Reid was his guy? The QB position is just too important for Kansas City to put off and will have too much of an impact on Reid’s success for him to wait to pull the trigger until the 2nd round.

Stoner also pointed out that only two teams took a non-QB with the first overall pick (Houston with Mario Williams and Miami with Jake Long) during that time span. Both of those picks were successful, but Houston still didn’t feel like Williams was worth the price to re-sign and Miami may do the same thing with Jake Long this offseason. Do you see any teams letting a good QB walk to save cap space? What does that tell you about the value of the first pick when it comes to QBs and non-QBs?

The other major decision that will impact Reid’s success will happen much sooner (perhaps even today?) and that is who he will name defensive coordinator. This is important on two fronts. First, hiring a DC that would change to a traditional 4-3 would probably mean that KC would have more holes to fill on defense. That would mean it would take longer to get up and running and KC would have less draft picks and FA money to spend on fixing the offense and getting Reid the players he needs on that side of the ball. This had me 100% convinced that we should stay with the 3-4. Not with the current 2-gapping system, but with an attacking 1-gap blitzing 3-4 like Pittsburgh runs. However, after reading THIS ARTICLE about the similarities in front seven responsibilities in the 3-4 that KC runs and some 4-3s I will be opened minded about whoever they hire until we find out how they plan on using our current players.

The other reason the DC is so important is that getting pressure on the opposing QB is just as important to Reid’s success as having a good QB. Just like Reid’s best years came with great QB play, they also came when they sacked the QB. In Reid’s 14 seasons in Philly he only had three losing seasons. He also only had three seasons where his defense didn’t rank in the top 10 in sacks. Guess what? They are the same three seasons. In the three seasons where his defense wasn’t in the top 10 in sacks his teams were 15-33. In the seasons where they were in the top 10 in sacks they were 130-93-1.

You want to know how KC has ranked in sacks the past five seasons? Their average ranking is 26th. Yes, we have a couple of solid pass rushers in Hali and Houston but the new defensive coordinator must find a way to get more constant pressure on the QB. For many years in Philly he had that DC in Jim Johnson. After his tragic loss to cancer, Reid struggled to replace him. Last year the Eagles finished with the second lowest sack total of his tenure with the team. Reid must find the right guy to attack opposing QBs if he wants to recapture the success he had in Philadelphia.

If Andy Reid can do those two things, if he can succeed in finding a QB and a good defensive coordinator then I think what is already a great hire by Clark Hunt may just end up being a Super Bowl caliber hire.

Here’s to hoping.

As always, thanks for reading and GO CHIEFS!!!!!!!!!!

Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs officially announced the hiring of Andy Reid on Friday but it won’t be until this afternoon that the new coach will meet with the media for the first time.

The Chiefs will introduce Reid at 1PM central time. You can watch the presser live at KCChiefs.com.

The media is sure to have a field day with Reid, though they may not get the kinds of answers they are looking for. Reid is notoriously boring in press conferences and rarely gives the press the soundbites they desire.

Still, this being his first presser as head coach of the Chiefs, Reid may give a bit more incite into his thinking than we’ll see at any other time during his tenure. Reports have been circulating that Reid has been working on assembling his coaching staff for some time now so we may learn the identities of some of his staff members today.

Reid figures to be asked about his search for a new GM, offensive and defensive coordinators and a QB. I’d also wager he’ll be asked his thoughts on the roster overall, as well as specific soon to be free agents like Dwayne Bowe and Branden Albert.

We’ll have coverage of the press conference up on AA shortly after it ends. If you’re at work and you aren’t able to watch live, we’ll pull any money quotes and pass them along to you.

For now, what questions would you have for coach Reid if you were attending the press conference?

December 23, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali (91) is congratulated by wide receiver Dexter McCluster (22) after Hali sacked Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) (not pictured) in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

n Philadelphia, anyone who traded with the Eagles for quarterbacks were sorry. Kevin Kolb’s debacle-filled career in Arizona speaks to that, and it’s not the only example. Reid propped up mediocre QBs, made them desirable, then dealt them. What Reid does is make whoever is under center better. Simple as that. It’s what he did for years in Philly, with Nick Foles being the most recent one. The Chiefs could draft a QB in the second round or so, have Reid work with him and then suddenly have stability at a low cost. That’s what history tells us will happen.

As far as talent on the roster, Reid will have significant say, and it’ll be interesting to see if he’s learned from his personnel mistakes with the Eagles over the past two years. If he starts signing a bunch of big-name free agents from different systems, we can assume he hasn’t. If he makes wacky assistant choices, we’ll assume he hasn’t. The Chiefs will have the No. 1 pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, which gives them plenty of fuel to rebuild. Either way, I like this marriage between Reid and the Chiefs. Kansas City got a proven winner who makes them immediately better to play in front of a fan base that will appreciate him. Reid got a head coaching job, which is big since there were only seven, and a chance to start new.

From www.nfl.com

Pioli — part of a five-man traveling party with Hunt, Chiefs president Mark Donovan, vice president Ted Crews and Hunt Sports Group executive Ryan Petkoff — got some face time with Reid. But it was clear to everyone involved who was in charge. Hunt took the time. Hunt asked the important questions. Hunt would make the decision. Pioli waited to be told.

The first major football hire done without Pioli’s input would also be the last one done with him as an employee. Pioli was professional, but nobody could ignore the awkward setup. He sat outside, researching on his phone or computer, working on contingency options in case Reid did not agree to come to Kansas City — just like the others who would not be making the decision.

The next day, on Friday, the Chiefs announced what they called a mutual decision for Pioli to walk away from the biggest job of his 20-year career in professional football. The Chiefs went 23-41 in his time in charge, the worst four-year stretch since Hunt’s father founded the team in 1960.

From www.kansascity.com

Inheriting a team that previously struggled is nothing new to Andy Reid. When he began his 14-year tenure, the NFL’s longest-active streak until his release this week, in 1999, the Eagles were 3-13 the season before, good enough for a three-way tie for the league’s worst record. Reid led the team to a two-game improvement in his rookie season under the headset. The Eagles reached the playoffs the following season, after earning an 11-5 regular-season record.

Reid’s successful coaching campaign in the City of Brotherly Love was just getting started. In 2001, the Eagles won their first of four-consecutive NFC East titles, the longest streak in franchise history, advancing to the conference title game in each of those years. Despite losses in his first three NFC Championship Games, the now 54-year-old head coach led the Eagles on an incredible journey in 2004.

Philadelphia’s 13-3 record in ’04 was exemplified by six wins earned against its NFC East division rivals, topping the Giants, Cowboys and Redskins twice each, en route to Super Bowl XXXIX, before falling to the New England Patriots, 24-21.

From www.kcchiefs.com

Kansas City has the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft for the first time in franchise history, so there will be pressure to dissect the college football all-star games, visit the pro days hosted by schools, and then prepare for the annual scouting combine in Indianapolis.

“We have the first pick in the draft and that’s a unique opportunity,” Hunt told the AP in an interview earlier this week. “On one hand I’m sad we have, because we had to earn it through playing poorly, but on the other hand it’s a great opportunity for us. I think there’s going to be a lot of thought that goes into that pick.”

From www.pennlive.com

The first task of the Chiefs’ brass will be to figure what to do at quarterback. There will be several options. One could be former Green Bay backup Matt Flynn. He is now in Seattle. The Seahawks paid handsomely to make Flynn their potential starter last year. But they struck draft gold in the form of Russell Wilson.

Flynn could be available. Flynn was well respected and well thought of in Green Bay. If Dorsey is among his fan club, there could be a nice connection. Reid’s roots are in Green Bay, and he’d likely have little trouble taking on a quarterback from the Packers’ tree.

The key would be to not pay too much for Flynn in the form of a draft pick. I think he’d be worth a conditional mid-round pick, because there are no guarantees he will be the starter. Also, his contract might have be adjusted to some conditions.

From espn.go.com

“I think it’s a terrific decision,” said Marty Schottenheimer, who has the second-most victories among Chiefs coaches, behind Hank Stram. “Andy Reid has got instant credibility. I’ve always had the greatest respect and admiration for him. He’s exactly what they need. I think the important part is that he has prior experience as a head coach in the NFL. It doesn’t matter what you do at any level until you get to that coaching level. The best way to prepare yourself to be a head coach is to be a head coach. Andy’s not learning on the job. He knows what he’s going to have to deal with.”

“He’s a great teacher and he’s demanding and I think that’s what you have to be. Telling players what to do is not as important as telling them how to do it. Andy’s that kind of guy.”

From www.kansascity.com

Donovan McNabb, who 94WIP radio host Anthony Gargano suggested could follow Reid to Kansas City as a short-term solution for the quarterback starved Chiefs, chimed in on Reid’s move Friday.

“Congrats Big Red on taking your talents to KC,” former Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb tweeted. “Big Red fans get ready to cheer on your new boss and new team from 2013 and on.”

See–he’s dropping hints. Read between the lines people, it’s a slam dunk. Well, maybe not. But keep your eye on that story as it develops.

From insidetheiggles.com

Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs made the hiring of former Eagles head coach Andy Reid official last night.

Now, as Reid assembles a staff, Chiefs fans are finally being given a chance to catch their collective breath and reflect on the hire.

Change was almost universally being called for by Chiefs Nation. The fans seemed to really want Romeo Crennel and Scott Pioli out and they got their wish.

But is Andy Reid the answer? Did team CEO Clark Hunt make the right call?

It’s time to weigh in Addicts.

December 30, 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) runs with the ball during the first half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

How a team attacks from the West Coast offense, Hasselbeck said, depends on the personnel.

“If you’re feeling good about your quarterback’s skill-set, and you’re feeling good about your pass protection and about your wide receivers’ opportunity to win one-on-ones downfield, then you’ll try to push the ball down the field,” Hasselbeck said. “If not, then you’re going to try to find creative ways to help your guys get open.

“One of the things Michael Vick does really, really well is play-action, take a deep shot … play-action bootleg, deep shot. And (Eagles running back) LeSean McCoy is a great runner …

“McNabb was a similar type player. He was good at taking a deep shot on a post route … those plays are run by a lot of different people. It’s a matter of putting your own personality on each player.”

From www.kansascity.com

“After several productive conversations, we made the difficult decision to part ways with Scott Pioli and allow him to pursue other opportunities,” Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt said in a statement released by the team. “Scott has been an invaluable member of the Chiefs family since joining us in 2009, and we sincerely appreciate his tremendous contributions over the last four years.

“I know that this was a difficult decision for Scott as well. He has a great deal of appreciation for the history of this franchise, for our players, coaches and employees, and especially our great fans.

From www.kansascity.com

Reid, a burly, mustachioed man with a striking resemblance to former Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Holmgren — one of Reid’s mentors — spent the last 14 seasons as head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, where in one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions he won six NFC East championships and took three other teams to the playoffs as wild-card entrants.

Earlier Friday, the Chiefs cleared the way for Reid’s arrival as the franchise’s 13th head coach by parting ways with general manager Scott Pioli. The Chiefs won 10 games and the AFC West championship in 2010 under Pioli but were 23-41 overall during his four seasons.

From www.kansascity.com

New role for Jamaal Charles

Charles topped 22 carries in a game six times in 2012, despite the Chiefs nearly always playing from behind. He topped 30 carries twice. That won’t happen under Reid.

That doesn’t necessarily mean bad news for Charles’ fantasy owners. Reid will know how to take advantage of Charles’ receiving ability. Charles fits perfectly as a descendent in the LeSean McCoy and Brian Westbrook lineage.

From www.nfl.com

News broke Thursday that former Philadelphia Eagles coach Andy Reid was close to a deal to become the next Chiefs head coach. Reid would like to bring in a personnel executive like Tom Heckert with him to Kansas City, which would leave no room for Pioli.

The concept of Pioli and Reid working together never made sense in the first place. Pioli was brought to Kansas City on Jan. 13, 2009 to remake the franchise in his image. The Chiefs went 23-41 under Pioli, with the 2010 AFC West championship as a highlight. Like so many former Bill Belichick staffers, Pioli struggled to replicate the winning New England Patriots formula away from Foxborough.

From www.nfl.com

Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs have officially made Andy Reid the next head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs.

We’ve known the deal was done for most of the day but this evening, Reid and his wife officially touched down in Kansas City and the new coach made things official by putting pen to paper.

Andy Reid and Clark Hunt make it official. Reid becomes the Head Coach of the Chiefs – #chiefs #chiefskingdom twitter.com/kcchiefs/statu…

— Kansas City Chiefs (@kcchiefs) January 5, 2013

It is certainly a historic day for the Kansas City Chiefs. As we learned with Scott Pioli, new beginnings, while they can be exciting, are not always a guarantee of success. We’ll have to make sure we scrutinize the Reid regime ad closely as we did the Pioli era.

Still, now is the time for cautious optimism. The Chiefs have a fresh start and a new hope.

Now let’s just hope that translates to wins on the field.

We’ll have much more tomorrow but for now, what do you think of the hiring of “Big Red?”

Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

According to Clark Judge of CBS Sports, the Kansas City Chiefs have given new head coach Andy Reid a five-year contract that will pay him top dollar.

In fact, he could be one of the highest-paid coaches in the NFL.

From Judge:

He [Reid] gains complete authority over the football operations of a team desperate to win, only he gains it with an owner who will stay out of the way and give him what he wants. Clark Hunt got a head start by awarding Reid a five-year contract that, one source indicated, will pay Reid top dollar, with the Chiefs’ new coach at or near the top of the NFL salary scale.

Interestingly, Judge says that Reid had the Chiefs at the top of his list and that KC was the only place he wanted to visit.

In fact, people who should know tell me Kansas City was first on Reid’s wish list and was the only place he wanted to go. Granted, there were overtures from Arizona and San Diego, but let’s be honest, people: Arizona has ownership concerns, and San Diego’s Dean Spanos has always held fast to his belief in the separation of GM and head coach.

So neither had the opportunity that exists in Kansas City.

Judge is right. The Chiefs are a prime opportunity. There is young talent on the roster and there are still experts out there that believe the Chiefs are a head coach and a QB away from playoff contention. It is hard to buy into that but you need only look at the Indianapolis Colts and perhaps more appropriately, the Minnesota Vikings, to see that a team can have a poor season and turn things around quickly.

Reid is reportedly on his way to Kansas City now. With Pioli out the door, Reid will likely be introduced as the new coach soon.

The Chiefs will probably try to get the Reid news out today. The NFL frowns upon teams upstaging the playoffs with hiring news and press conferences. If there is no announcement today, you can probably expect it Monday.

Andy Reid is going to be the next head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs.

ESPN’s Chris Mortenson is reporting that the deal is done and that the lawyers are reviewing the contract:

Andy Reid and the Chiefs have reached an agreement. Lawyers reviewing contract. Added to ESPN story along with @adamschefter

— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) January 4, 2013

The move happened very quickly. As recently as Wednesday, there were reports swirling that Reid was a lock to become the next coach of the Arizona Cardinals. One report said a deal was “95% certain.”

Then the Kansas City Chiefs came up with a big interception.

On the day that Reid was scheduled to travel to Arizona, the Chiefs flew to Philly and met with Reid for about nine hours. The two sides broke for the night but not before Reid pushed his interview with the Cardinals back to Friday.

Yesterday, the rumors and reports poured out with ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Chris Mortenson agreeing that a deal between the Chiefs and Reid was on the verge of being done.

And now it is.

Reid will likely bring his west coast offense to KC. He has also traditionally run a 4-3 defense so he may make changes to KC’s base 3-4 set.

The Chiefs fired GM Scott Pioli earlier. This was the biggest sign that Reid was on his way to KC. It was widely reported that if Reid was in, Pioli would be out.

We shall see.

Addicts, what are your initial thoughts in the Reid hire?

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Baltimore Ravens have swiped a player from the Kansas City Chiefs.

Tackle David Mims, who spent time on the Chiefs’ active roster and on the practice squad, was signed to a futures contract yesterday by the Baltimore Ravens.

The Report comes from Aaron Wilson:

The Ravens signed five players to reserve-future deals, including former Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle David Mims.Mims was on the active roster for Kansas City for five games as a rookie last season.

The 6-foot-8, 335-pounder played collegiately at Virginia Union.

From www.baltimoresun.com

Mims was a Pioli project. With Andy Reid likely to be named the next head coach of the Chiefs, players hand-picked by Pioli could be in danger, especially those that spend time at the bottom of the roster. Reid is a former offensive lineman and will likely be looking to bring his own brand of blocker up front.

Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

More sources are reporting that a deal between Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs is going to get done and get done today.

The latest from Jason La Canfora:

Reid will not be traveling to San Diego or Arizona. Issues of staff and structure were hashed out today.

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) January 3, 2013

A deal between the Chiefs and Andy Reid is not imminent following latest meetings. expect sweeping changes and announcement likely today…

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) January 3, 2013

The “not” there was a mistake.

sorry, my bad here- deal between Chiefs and Andy Reid is NOW imminent. As in will be finalized likely by end of day

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) January 3, 2013

It looks like the announcement will be made official any time now. Andy Reid will be the next head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs.

Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Despite an ESPN report that former Eagles coach Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs are very close to a deal, NFL.com reporters are reporting that Reid still plans to interview with the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday and the San Diego Chargers over the weekend.

In a not so veiled shot at ESPN, the NFL.com report mentions a previous ESPN report that Reid was certain to end up in Arizona.

Reid will interview with the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday as planned, according to NFL.com’s three amigos: Steve Wyche, Ian Rapoport and Albert Breer. Reid also plans to interview with the San Diego Chargers this weekend, which is near where he owns a home, someone with knowledge of the meetings told Wyche.

This is officially silly season when it comes to coaching news. ESPN reported just two days ago that there was a “95%” chance that Reid would land in Arizona. Now the same network is reporting that Reid and the Chiefs are close to a deal. That may very well prove correct, but he still plans to meet with two other teams.

The media loves to get into pissing contests with each other over these kinds of things. It is always pretty enjoyable to watch them snipe at each other. I’ve been wondering for a while when the major networks are going to figure out that fans don’t give a crap who was first to report something. It’s no longer the days where you wouldn’t find out the news until the paper came out the next day and the only way to get the news was to get that particular paper. Scoops don’t matter anymore to anyone other than the people reporting them. It is the worst kind of chest thumping and what it leads to is the slew of incorrect reports we have to put up with during times like these. Most Chiefs fans aren’t going to hear the news of who the next coach is from NFL.com or Chris Mortenson, they’ll probably hear it from AA or from a post their friend made on Facebook.

So sit tight Addicts. The truth is coming and we will let you know when it does.

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

According to ESPN’s Chris Mortenson, the Kansas City Chiefs and former Eagles head coach Andy Reid are about to strike a deal.

Andy Reid and #Chiefs are on verge of a deal. Story up on ESPN.com short on on SportsCenter via myself and @adamschefter

— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) January 3, 2013

Mort reported earlier that he would be surprised if Reid wasn’t the next head coach of the Chiefs, though he admitted the situation was fluid.

Now it looks as though Reid is leaning towards signing with KC.

From @mortreport and me: Chiefs on verge of a deal with Andy Reid. One source said “the major issues have been discussed and agreed upon.”

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 3, 2013

Information is coming faster than we can relay it to you but keep it here at Arrowhead Addict for all the latest.

Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

It is looking more and more like Andy Reid will be the next head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs.

ESPN Insider, Chris Mortenson, the man who brought you the report on Mike Shanahan being the next head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, says he would be surprised if Reid is not hired.

Mort on Mike and Mike in the Morning, via Pro Football Talk:

“The Chiefs were trying to close a deal with Andy Reid,” Mortensen said. “At this point I’m going to be surprised if Andy Reid is not the Chiefs’ coach. Now, I’ve been surprised before, but there’s a lot of activity there. Some would say, ‘Why Kansas City over Arizona?’ One thing is, in Kansas City, Clark Hunt, the owner of the Chiefs, he’ll let Andy Reid build this thing the way he wants to build it. And if you know Andy, he wants to be able to basically pick the entire organization, set up his personnel. . . . The Chiefs are willing, and Clark Hunt is willing to do that.”

Hunt has said that he wants to make sure the new head coach is comfortable with the situation in Kansas City. That is likely why he has stripped GM Scott Pioli of the power to hire the next head coach. IF Hunt wants Reid and Reid doesn’t want Pioli, then Pioli will likely be out of a job.

There is likely a lot of interest in Reid so don’t start buying yourselves fake mustaches to wear at Arrowhead next season just yet.

Still, even though Mort got the Shanahan report wrong, there was never any nine hour meeting between the Chiefs and the former Broncos head coach.

Hold on to your hats.

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Former Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid reportedly skipped his trip to Arizona to visit the Cardinals last evening. This, after Reid met with representatives from the Kansas City Chiefs for close to nine hours.

Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

Reports indicated that Reid was supposed to fly to Arizona last evening in order to meet with the Cardinals today. Eventually, the meeting with the Chiefs ended and then last night, reports emerged that Reid was considering pushing the meeting with Arizona back.

Just got a text from Andy Reid, said Chiefs interview went well, was very long. Cards interview might be pushed back to Friday now.

— Reuben Frank (@RoobCSN) January 3, 2013

Then later, we found out a bit more when Howard Eskin of Fox 29 in Philadelphia caught up with Reid shortly after his meeting with the Chiefs.

“Former Eagles coach Andy Reid lost his job on Monday but he may be closer to another job after today. And it could be, it could be with Kansas City. I spoke with Andy Reid after his meeting of over eight hours, nearly nine hours. It was here in Philadelphia at the private airport Atlantic Aviation.

“At the meeting was the owner of the Chiefs, Clark Hunt, along with the GM Scott Pioli, and the president Mark Donovan along with four others from the front office. Reid was accompanied with his agent, Bob LaMonte. After the meeting, I was the only media person that spoke to Reid, and although he would not talk on camera, he did tell me he had no contract done — eight hours and nothing done, or nine hours? — but he does love the ownership, was very comfortable with all their people and he was scheduled to head to Arizona today but now he told he is not sure if he will go to Arizona. He wanted to talk to his wife. He also told me he may have a visit in San Diego.”

It sure sounds like the two sides are getting close. It may be that Reid wanted to go home and speak to his wife about the possibility of moving to Kansas City.

Let’s hope she’s a BBQ fan.

(h/t Arrowhead Pride)

Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Earlier today we told you that there were reports that the Kansas City Chiefs were in Philly interviewing former Eagles coach Andy Reid. Now we are hearing that the interview lasted at least nine hours.

And it may still be going on.

Andy reid,lamonte has met w KC Chiefs for over 9 hours. Owner clark hunt, pres Mark donovan, GM scott pioli and 4 others. @profootballtalk

— Howard Eskin (@howardeskin) January 2, 2013

There is no indication from this tweet that the meeting has ended. In fact, the wording seems to indicated that it is still happening.

While I am sure these meeting can take some time, nine hours seems a little long. Remember, we heard last year that GM Scott Pioli’s interview with former Titans coach Jeff Fischer did not last very long at all.

If you are in the “hire Andy Reid” camp, this is good news. Reid is reportedly supposed to fly to Arizona tonight so he can interview with the Cardinals tomorrow. If the Chiefs are serious about hiring Reid, the only plane he’ll get on tonight will be Clark Hunt’s private jet back to Kansas City.

Mark Donovan and Pioli are also at the meeting. Donovan worked in the Eagles organization from 2002-2009 as the senior VP of operations. He is now the COO for the Chiefs and was likely brought along to help convince Reid to sign.

(h/t Arrowhead Pride)

It occurred to me today that if the Kansas City Chiefs hire Andy Reid to be their next head coach that they will have employed three of the coaches included in “The Flabbergasted Four!”

What is “The Flabbergasted Four?”

They are a collection of superheros of sorts. It all started in the mailbag column of popular ESPN disciple Bill Simmons. This is from back when Matt Cassel was the QB of the Patriots. At the beginning of the column, Simmons talks about how Cassel reminded him of John Elway.

Oh, how far we’ve come.

Q: After his challenge of the Brandon Jacobs fumble when Jacobs’ arm was clearly down, Andy Reid needs to take his place on the Mount Rushmore of coaches who don’t know how to manage the clock or use challenges properly. I’m thinking that the Flabbergasted Four would consist of Reid, Marty Schottenheimer, Herm Edwards and Art Shell. They could even borrow Flava Flav’s clock from the Mount Rushmore of Rap, except that the clock would be constantly running while the four of them stare straight ahead with incredulous looks on their faces.
– Jason W., Laguna Niguel, Calif.

SG: Now that’s a cartoon I would watch — the Flabbergasted Four! Although we should switch Romeo Crennel and Brad Childress for Schottenheimer and Shell because those guys aren’t coaching anymore. Regardless, I feel like this could be its own cartoon on the NFL Network called “The Flabbergasted Four.” Then Bob Papa could come back from a commercial on “Thursday Night Football” and say, “This week on the Flabbergasted Four: The boys have to get from Los Angeles to Las Vegas in four hours to prevent a terrorist attack!” And every episode would center around them getting in each other’s way, making bad decisions and screwing things up — with Andy Reid repeatedly throwing challenge flags and grinding everything to a halt for three minutes at a time — before they collectively botch the last three minutes and another city blows up “MacGyver”-style. And that would be the show each week. By the way, Browns, Eagles and Chiefs fans are just nodding solemnly right now.

Pretty funny, right?

Then, the column inspired this cartoon:

So if the Chiefs hire Andy Reid, they will have hired three of the members of the Flabbergasted Four.

I am a big supporter of a Reid hire but it would be pretty funny if the Chiefs ended up employing all these guys at some point.

Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Yesterday we told you that it looked as though Andy Reid was definitely heading to Arizona but now ESPN’s Chris Mortenson is reporting that Reid is interviewing with the Kansas City Chiefs this afternoon.

Rumors were flying all day yesterday that Reid was virtually certain to take the head coaching job in Arizona. For their part, the Cardinals have denied that is the case and have said they are interviewing multiple candidates.

Here is the tweet, courtesy of Adam Schefter:

Plot thickens: Before arriving in Arizona tonight, Andy Reid will interview today in Philadelphia with the KC Chiefs, via @mortreport.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 2, 2013

So it looks like the Chiefs will have a chance to nab Reid before he even interviews with the Cardinals.

The Chiefs are an attractive destination for Reid. He’d have the first overall pick in the draft should he come to KC and would be able to select the QB of his choice. Reid is known as a developer of QBs and could relish the opportunity the Chiefs present. The team is young and has a number of talented players on defense. Reid would also get to pair his new QB with dynamic RB Jamaal Charles.

We’ll keep you updated on any news as it comes out. If the Chiefs are really serious about Reid, they won’t let him leave Philly without a contract. The fact that Clark Hunt was willing to fly to Philly to intercept Reid before he got to Arizona tells me he must be serious about the prospect of hiring Reid.

Stay tuned.

Is Andy Reid going to steal our safety or give us some sugar and let us trade back? (Source: Yardbarker.com)

Per PFT, the Eagles want to trade up to get either safeties Eric Berry or Earl Thomas and they have the ammunition to do so.

Peter King of SI.com reports that the Eagles want to move up into first half of the first round, and that they’d like to get either Eric Berry of Tennessee or Earl Thomas of Texas. (Our mock draft has Berry going seventh and Thomas going 21st.)

King writes that the Dolphins, who have the 12th pick, could be the Eagles’ trading partners. Dolphins boss Bill Parcells would like to have a second-round pick, but Miami currently doesn’t have one after the Brandon Marshall trade.

For Philadelphia, moving up would likely involve the Eagles giving up their own first-round pick (24th overall) and one or two of their other picks, which include the 35th, 55th and 70th overall.

Apparently the Chiefs either have a trading partner or competition. If Berry falls to us at number five and the Eagles want to trade, do you do so?  Maybe they (The Eagles) swap picks with the Bucs or Redskins to jump in front of the Chiefs. 

What do you think?

Photo Source: Yardbarker.com

KC’s 2nd Round Pick Could Be Valuable to McNabb Suitors With all the rumors swirling around about a possible trade for Donovon McNabb, one teams name that I haven’t seen mentioned is the Kansas City Chiefs. No, I am not suggesting the Chiefs would be interested in trading for McNabb but they may just be the vehicle for another team to get a deal done. The rumor right now is that the Eagles will give up McNabb for a draft pick in the top 42 picks. That would be the 10th pick in the 2nd round and above. I don’t think anyone is going to give up a 1st rounder for McNabb at this point but I do think teams will give up an early 2nd rounder for him. The Chiefs hold the #36 pick in the draft and they are surrounded by QB needy teams. After the jump I will outline a scenario where the Chiefs might be able to get involved in a deal that would move McNabb. (more…)