Kansas City Chiefs: Top 10 players in 2015
Dec 14, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during the second half against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
3. Travis Kelce
First off, the picture above pretty much says it all. Kelce is furious, Thomas is happy he’s furious, and the Oakland Raiders are getting plastered. Kelce is a beast with the football, and showed his potential in 2014 after having micro-fracture surgery in 2013. The second-year tight end burst onto the scene with 67 catches, 862 yards and five receiving touchdowns, leading the team in all categories.
It would shock absolutely nobody if Kelce gets to the Pro Bowl this year. Entering his third season, Kelce should have a complete understanding of the playbook. More importantly, he should be completely healthy two years removed from knee surgery, and, at 25 years old, is entering the time period where most players go off.
Projection: 85 receptions, 1,040 yards, nine touchdowns
2. Jamaal Charles
Charles is still the best offensive player on Kansas City by a wide margin, despite the playmakers accompanying him. The 28-year-old running back is a threat to score from anywhere on the field whether he’s catching the ball or taking the handoff.
Charles is the type of player who can almost win a game on his own. Remember when Charles scored five touchdowns against the Raiders in 2013? It was one of the most incredible performances you will ever see. Charles continues to have that explosiveness, while also adding value in the blocking game. Nothing says Charles will fall off anytime soon.
Projection: 1,200 rushing yards, 400 receiving yards, 17 total touchdowns
1. Justin Houston
Houston is the best defensive player in the NFL this side of J.J. Watt. Houston led the league and notched a franchise record with 22 sacks in 2014, showcasing his incredible skills. Houston is a devastating pass-rusher off the edge and can also come from the inside when Hali and Dee Ford are put on the field with him.
Additionally, Houston is the best outside linebacker in football against the run, holding the edge and forcing the play back toward the inside. Although it is rare, Houston can drop into pass coverage and take away a running back or tight end. He’s flat-out incredible.
Projection: 70 tackles, 18.5 sacks, five forced fumbles