Chiefs things I might think: Week 1
By Ryan Tracy
Dec 28, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) is sacked by Kansas City Chiefs nose tackle Dontari Poe (92) during the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 19-7. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Dorsey needs to act fast to extend Dontari Poe
There is no time like the present. And the present is a lot more expensive than it was a week ago. The ticking clock on the Poe contract extension just got louder and started ticking faster. John Dorsey needs to get cooking now that Marcel Dareus, one of Poe contemporaries, singed a huge new extension.
The key will be the guaranteed money. Dareus’ is guaranteed $60 million in the the new deal, including $42 million at signing. That’s a lot of money for a nose tackle, but that’s not the worst of it. The Jets’ Muhammad Wilkerson is in a contract year and could sign for more after the season.
Cap magic needs to happen in Kansas City. Extending Poe early during the season could save enough precious cap room to keep Poe long term. Otherwise, the Chiefs could be looking at a Franchise Tag situation with Poe down the line.
Jah Reid needs to step up at swing Tackle
It was a chance signing Jah Reid, possibly even a stretch. Reid has struggled the last 2 seasons in Baltimore’s system. However, he is an above-average athlete for a man his size. He may do well with a fresh start in a new system, especially returning to his more natural position at tackle.
Reid’s development is important. There is no other true swing tackle. Jeff Allen can play outside in a pinch, but is best suited at guard. No team survives the season without injuries. The swing tackle will need to play at some point in 2015. If Reid is not up to the task, more moves will need to be made.
Next: Week 2 vs Broncos Could decide AFCWest