The positions that will make or break the Chiefs in 2016

Take pressure off of their top two pass-catchers (Jeremy Maclin and Travis Kelce)
When the postseason arrived, the Chiefs quickly learned what life was like without their top receiver. Maclin’s injury situation made the Chiefs a one-dimensional offense. It’s not necessary for the receiving corps to have all-world production, but having a third, reliable option gives the passing game some insurance.

If Streater or Williams can play a competent brand of football from the starting spot opposite of Maclin, the Chiefs will have a chance to be a very productive offense.

Avoid a huge dropoff opposite of Defensive Rookie of the Year Marcus Peters

The departure of Sean Smith to the divisional rival Oakland Raiders may be the Chiefs’ biggest storyline this year. He played a major role in their resurgence in 2015. The defense was an entirely different group when he was serving out his three-game suspension.

Phillip Gaines is returning from injury, but it’s too early to tell if he’s on track or if he can even stay healthy, for that matter. The trio of draft picks at that spot may prove paramount to keeping the bottom from falling out of the secondary. If Dorsey hits on just one of his three cornerback picks in the 2016 NFL Draft (KeiVarae Russell, Eric Murray and D.J. White), the defense may be able to shoulder the loss of a dependable veteran at corner.

Next: One final defensive spot and my conclusions...