Kansas City Chiefs: Reviewing the Rookies

Aug 11, 2015; St. Joseph, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches (99) runs defensive drills during the training camp at Missouri Western State University. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Rakeem Nunez-Roches

Rakeem Nunez-Roches was taken in the sixth round by Dorsey, and was seen as a tool to spell Dontari Poe. Poe wore down last year, and ended up having surgery for a herniated disc over the summer. Thankfully, Poe has returned and the defensive front of the Chiefs has been perhaps the biggest positive of the season so far. This has meant that Nunez-Roches has struggled to find the field and make an impact.

When drafted, the defensive tackle from Southern Miss was seen as a raw yet talented prospect, and while it is disappointing to have not seen more of him on the field, it should not be worrying. Nunez-Roches is still on a steep learning curve, and it is more due to the fantastic form of Jaye Howard, Allen Bailey and the rest of the defensive front that he has been unable to see the field. Whether he is a successful draft pick remains to be seen, but so far he has been unable to impact the Chiefs’ year.

Brian Parker

Brian Parker was signed as undrafted free agent by AFC West rivals, the San Diego Chargers. The Chiefs’ then claimed him off waivers early September and was placed on the active roster as one of four tight ends. Unfortunately, Parker has been injured for the majority of the season. He eventually made his debut in the Week 8 London victory over the Detroit Lions, and immediately entered the fray, playing 17 snaps.

Parker is not a pass catching tight end like Travis Kelce and O’Shaugnessy. He is, however, an excellent blocker. For the Chiefs’ first touchdown of the game, Parker made an excellent block to seal the edge for De’Anthony Thomas to waltz into the end zone on a reverse end around. He then matched this block in the second half to allow Kelce to dive in for a touchdown on a screen play. An excellent performance by Parker, and hopefully it shows signs of the future.

So, do you agree with my reviews, Addicts? Are you as impressed with the draft picks so far, or have you seen some weaknesses in some of Dorsey’s picks? This could well be one of the best drafts the Chiefs have had in the last few years. Are you as excited with the upcoming rookies as I am, and do you see them having an impact on the second half of the season?

Let me know in the comments, and as always… GO CHIEFS!!