Five surprise players on Chiefs roster bubble

Laurent Duvernay-Tardif: The offensive guard spots may be the where all eyes are trained during Training Camp this year.  And with Jah Reid re-signed to a new deal, Zach Fulton showing his value backing up Mitch Morse at center, and the newly arrived Parker Ehinger, Larry Tardif may be on a bit shorter leash than one would think.

He is the incumbent starter at the right guard spot, but thus far that’s more about a lack of options than his quality of play.  And Jah Reid handled himself pretty nicely in a relief role at the spot, which could give the Chiefs the idea that Tardif isn’t a guy they have to keep.

Even if moved off of the right side, he would still have a shot at the left guard spot.  However, he hasn’t played there and the Chiefs do have some competition for the position.  Plus there are the outside options of Ronald Leary (via trade) and Jahri Evans (free agency) who would both be instantaneous upgrades over anyone on the Chiefs roster.

There is also a question about desire.  I have no doubt that LDT is giving it his all on the field, but is he giving it his all…all the time?  Well, that’s a clear “no”.  It’s impossible for him to.  Tardif is still pursuing his medical degree, an admirable goal, and that takes a lot of time even when he isn’t in class.  That’s something he alluded to in a recent Twitter post.

Does studying for med school mean he isn’t able to also focus on football?  Of course not.  But it does mean he can’t be 100% focused on football.  And for a guy with his limited experience and need to develop, that can be a bit of an issue.  I hope it isn’t and that he’s able to take a big step forward.  But of all the players on this roster, he’s the one who needs football the least.

Next: A Make Or Break Battle