Chiefs rumors: Gerald Hodges signing is move KC “should make”
By Matt Conner
Bleacher Report says the Chiefs should make sure to sign Gerald Hodges if they want to strengthen their run defense.
Gerald Hodges is the only player the Kansas City Chiefs have brought in for a visit other than newly signed defensive tackle Bennie Logan. The former San Francisco 49ers linebacker came and went from K.C. without an official contract offer, but he has the skill set to match the Chiefs’ needs perfectly, so it’s still a marriage that makes sense, lack of an offer notwithstanding.
Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport agrees and lists signing Hodges as the move the Chiefs should make at this point in free agency. He writes:
"Gerald Hodges just might fit the bill. The 26-year-old was in and out of a San Francisco 49ers lineup that was historically bad against the run in 2016, but that wasn’t Hodges’ fault. He was actually a top-10 inside linebacker last season against the run according to Pro Football Focus."
Hodges started a career-high 12 games last season for the 49ers and had 80 total tackles, 3 sacks, 2 interceptions and 2 passes defended. His ability to defend the run would help bolster the Chiefs total run defense next season, a weakness in 2016, and would also help offer some security in case Derrick Johnson isn’t ready to return at full strength.