Stat Predictions for Chiefs Key Defenders

Marcus Peters- 55 tackles; 1 sack; 1 forced fumble; 6 int

Peters proved that he is a top corner in this league by nabbing the defensive rookie of the year award and leading the league in interceptions. However, he was still a rookie and led the league in targets as well.

Quarterbacks will take fewer shots at Peters now that he has established himself and will instead switch to one of the other less prolific corners and his numbers may suffer because of it. Peters will none the less have his opportunities to shine and take advantage of the some of the weaker arms in the AFC.

Derrick Johnson– 105 tackles; 5.5 sacks; 2 forced fumbles; 2 int

Another year down another year older for Derrick Johnson. While his body may be less inclined to take the day to day beating, Johnson’s mind is still sharp on football as the Chiefs’ defensive leader.

Johnson is the one who organizes the Chiefs pre-play and leads them each year in tackles. This year Johnson may command a healthier and stouter front seven which will up his sack total but keep his tackles a few less than last year.

Tamba Hali- 42 tackles; 3.5 sacks; 1 forced fumble; 1 int

Tamba Hali is entering his twelfth year with the Chiefs and has showed some signs of age as he has had to sit out of plenty of practice sessions in order to be ready for Sundays. Despite his knee repair this off-season Hali will continue to need time off during the week.

His leadership on and off the field will be invaluable to the younger players as they take a bigger role in the defense this season. Hali will need to take more breaks during games so his totals will reflect a lesser role as outside linebacker.

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