Chiefs have challenges ahead to keep defense together

Sep 14, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry (29) before the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Sean Smith

There has been a ton of talk concerning Smith and his contract. Many believe Marcus Peters was drafted to replace Smith, allowing Kansas City to save money in the secondary. I find that to be ridiculous. This isn’t your grandpa’s NFL anymore. Teams are basically starting three corners and have to cover on 35-40 plays per game. Smith is one of the best corners in the NFL and at 6-foot-3 and 218 pounds, he is perfect for Bob Sutton’s press-man system. Smith will likely cost somewhere around five years and $55 million, with $30 million guaranteed, but he’s worth it. Dorsey will keep Smith in Kansas City, allowing Peters to play opposite him and Phillip Gaines in the slot.

Husain Abdullah

This is a tricky one. Abdullah is a quiet producer for the Chiefs, almost never in the wrong spot, and always able to make a play. Abdullah also gives you the versatility of a safety who can blitz, play in the box and cover the tight end, along with an occasional receiver. I think this all boils down to the health of Eric Berry. If Berry is 100 percent, I think Abdullah walks. Otherwise, Dorsey might attempt to keep the 29-year-old. My guess is Abdullah plays elsewhere in 2016, and that could cost Kansas City.

Eric Berry

This is impossible to predict. We all can just hope and pray that Berry returns cancer-free for his sake. Anything beyond that is gravy. If he can play, it is almost certain that Berry will sign a one-year deal to reestablish his worth at a low cost. After that, Dorsey and Berry’s agent can get down to business if we reach that point. Regardless, if Berry is healthy, he will be in Kansas City in 2016.

What do you think, Addicts? Am I nuts? Who am I off-base about? Let us know below.