Kansas City Chiefs nose tackle Dontari Poe is feeling good heading into the 2016 season.
Last year, we all know about the Poe saga and everything that followed. The 346-pound defensive lineman missed some of the OTAs before undergoing back surgery and missing all of training camp.
Fairly shockingly, Poe returned for Week 1 and did not miss a game throughout the year, playing better as the season progressed. On Monday, the big man talked about his health and feels very optimistic.
“I feel real good— it’s actually probably the best I’ve felt in a couple years.” - Dontari Poe on how healthy he feels entering phase one.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) April 18, 2016
Poe also spoke about his contract situation. The former Pro Bowler is up for a new contract at the end of the season and doesn’t seem shy about asking for big money.
"You play good, you get paid good." ~ Dontari Poe. Guessing that means he's ready to bet on himself this year. #Chiefs
— CitadelChief (@citadelchief) April 18, 2016
It’s impossible to imagine a scenario where general manager John Dorsey allows Poe to leave. The Chiefs could either apply the franchise tag to him or simply pay him, something that will likely cost around five years and $75 million with $40 million guaranteed.
Dorsey has continually said that Kansas City will retain its own top players and build in the trenches. Poe clearly fits both of those qualifications.