Chiefs release first depth chart: 10 observations
By Austin Owen
Backing up DJ
Kevin Pierre-Louis is going to be an interesting name to follow. Chiefs Kingdom collectively scratched their heads when special teams ace D.J. Alexander was traded for Pierre-Louis two weeks ago. It seems that Kansas City may wind up with the better end of this deal.
Andy Reid is on record as saying that Pierre-Louis is a guy they liked coming out of college. He shows good speed and quickness at the inside linebacker position. Keep an eye on this young man throughout the preseason. Who knows, maybe the Chiefs finally found the DJ replacement they have been searching for.
Nelson on the outside
Cornerback is a position with a lot of question marks outside of All-Pro Marcus Peters. Terrance Mitchell started down the stretch a year ago and played pretty well. Mitchell has been dealing with hamstring issues through camp thus far, however, which has given Steven Nelson a chance to show what he’s got. Typically viewed as a good slot corner, Nelson was not one that most considered for this role, but he has had an impressive camp. Mitchell would still be my pick but this a certainly one to keep an eye on.
A few more observations include Tanoh Kapassagnon already on the second team, and Dee Ford in as starting right outside linebacker. Also, De’Anthony Thomas is listed as the team’s kick returner, and his value on special teams is what will likely keep him on the team.
This depth chart is far from what we will see when the season kicks off in New England. Still, Its something. If nothing else, an indicator that we are one step closer to football. Any observations that jump out to you? Let us know in the comments. Until next time, GO CHIEFS!