Grading The Kansas City Chiefs Offseason So Far

Aug 16, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; Oakland Raiders strong safety Tyvon Branch (33) tackles New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram (22) during the second quarter of a preseason game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The Chiefs Sign Tyvon Branch To A One Year/2.1 Million Dollar Contract

Tyvon Branch was one of the better run defense safeties in the league just a few years ago before injuries derailed his last two seasons. That’s why this is a no lose situation for the Chiefs. If Branch stays healthy they get a perfect replacement for Eric Berry (who’s status remains unknown) and if he doesn’t stay healthy they have no long term financial commitments to him.

Grade: A

The Chiefs Sign Paul Fanaika To A Three Year/8.1 Million Dollar Contract

When I first heard that KC had signed a guard who started last season for the Cardinals I thought “Great, a good and cheap signing for depth/competition.” When I heard that they gave him three years and $8.1 million it changed my perception. While I’m all for providing Zach Fulton with competition for the starting RG spot, I’m not sure I’m a huge fan of giving someone who wasn’t really any better than a rookie 6th round pick that kind of contract. Maybe they see something in Fanaika that is more than a replacement level veteran free agent, but if not they overpaid. I do like the fact that Fanaika is a physical lineman, I’m tired of the “athletic” OL type that end up getting pushed around against stronger defenders. Still, I feel like you can land OL of Fanaika’s ability for closer to the veteran minimum.

Grade: C+

The Chiefs Sign Josh Mauga To A Three Year/8.25 Million Dollar Contract

This one I am just flat out not a fan of. Mauga was a weak spot in the defense last year and the Chiefs should absolutely be doing everything they can to make sure he’s not a starter on opening day. I’m fine with having Mauga as a backup that can fill in and play special teams, but you can find those guys anywhere and certainly don’t have to give them a three year/$8.25 million contract. John Dorsey has been great this offseason, but I think this one was a mistake.

Grade: F

The Chiefs Re-Sign Multiple Reserve Players

I’m going to lump together the signings of the following players:

Jason Avant
Junior Hemingway
Demetrius Harris
Richard Gordon
Josh Martin
Kelcie McCray

I considered breaking these down individually, but in the end they all are pretty similar. These are cheap roll players. Avant provides a great veteran presence that knows Reid’s offense. Demetrius Harris and Richard Gordon have a chance to step up and be key role players with Anthony Fasano leaving. Junior Hemingway, Josh Martin, and Kelcie McCray are all great special teams contributors that have helped Dave Toub to have one of the best special teams units in the NFL.

Grade: A

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