Locked on Chiefs: Inside linebacker help (still) wanted

The Kansas City Chiefs enter into minicamp with lingering questions at one key position on the defense, the inside linebackers.

With the attention on the offense over the last few weeks, one key veteran player’s release has stirred questions about the middle of the Chiefs defense. Former New York Jet David Harris is an experienced, productive linebacker who put up 95 tackles in 2016 and has played for Bob Sutton in the past.

The Chiefs have their faith placed in Derrick Johnson’s return for the regular season. Johnson himself has stated repeatedly that he believes he will be ready for camp and to play by week one. If there is any reason to think that his return could be delayed, it’s in the Chiefs interest to explore looking for a veteran who can hold down one of the inside linebacker positions while Johnson remains out.

With minicamp set to begin, the team starting linebackers are likely to be Ramik Wilson and Justin March-Lillard. Wilson made strides in 2016 and produced well playing opposite Johnson. His continued development is critical to the Chiefs 2017 season. Any absence of Derrick Johnson will only increase its importance.

Justin March-Lillard has been injured on and off through his young career. In 2017, he missed time but was reactivated late in the season. Although he is expected to be ready for training camp, Linebackers Coach Gary Gibbs shed some light on March-Lillard’s slow return when he spoke to the press recently,

"“When he came back last year, he was out there, but he wasn’t the same player. He was still working through his injury. I kind of feel like he’s more like he was moving around his rookie year as far as quickness and breaking on the football and moving around. Obviously, his knowledge is a lot better than it was his first year.” – Linebackers Coach Gary Gibbs"

Spending a mid-round draft pick on Ukeme Eligwe was a sign that the Chiefs are still looking to be more athletic at the position. Eligwe’s former teammate at Florida State, Terrance Smith is also a player with limited experience in 2016 who has a chance to earn the roster spot.

With the youth at the position, the only question is whether or not a veteran linebacker could make a difference for this team going into the 2017 season. Harris has a good track record and can fit the defense. The question is whether the Chiefs see it as a priority or not.

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