Eric Berry and beyond: Building a championship roster

Jan 9, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Kansas City Chiefs free safety Eric Berry (29) reacts after intercepting a pass against the Houston Texans during the first quarter in a AFC Wild Card playoff football game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Kansas City Chiefs free safety Eric Berry (29) reacts after intercepting a pass against the Houston Texans during the first quarter in a AFC Wild Card playoff football game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
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Jan 3, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (19) is congratulated after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (19) is congratulated after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

For John Dorsey, there are two areas on the other side of the ball that deserve his focus. With the Chiefs facing a window of two or three years, the urgency falls squarely on the need for a compliment to Jeremy Maclin and an upgrade on the offensive line.

On the Outside

The wide receiver who starts opposite in Maclin in Week 1 of the 2016 season must be able to make an impact. To do that, he will have to be a solid athlete who can come in and learn the Andy Reid offense in OTAs and training camp. For that reason, the most likely route to find that type of player is through free agency.

With the investment in Maclin’s contract, the fit is likely a player that is not looking to become a #1 receiver. Experience in a complex West Coast Offense would be ideal. Luckily, there is a duo of receivers set to test the market that fit the bill exactly.

The Bengals have three receivers set to enter free agency. Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones have been the 1-2 punch behind A.J Green, playing in Jay Gruden’s and Hue Jackson’s version of the WCO. Jones has stated he will test the waters and he could have a competitive market as a second receiver.

Sanu, who is a year older than Jones, was a particular thorn in the Chiefs’ side last October when he caught four passes for 84 yards in Cincinnati. While the Bengals may try to bring one back, it is likely and either/or scenario. The Chiefs would be wise to pursue one or both them early in free agency.

Next: What about the interior?

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