Chiefs vs. Bengals: 3 under-the-radar performers for Kansas City

CINCINNATI, OH - AUGUST 19: Albert Wilson
CINCINNATI, OH - AUGUST 19: Albert Wilson /
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KANSAS CITY, MO – May 13: The helmet of Matt Szymanski
KANSAS CITY, MO – May 13: The helmet of Matt Szymanski /

Ukeme Eligwe

Four months ago, the Kansas City Chiefs took a chance in the fifth round on a small-school prospect from Georgia Southern in Ukeme Eligwe. He looked the part of an uber-athletic defender who could blossom into a real playmaker with the right coaching, a guy who can drop into coverage or even shed blockers and get into the backfield.

On Saturday, he showed the ability to get after the passer with a nice closing burst to sack the quarterback, A.J. McCarron. He has deceptive speed and great length, which is going to present problems for those tasked with blocking him. If Eligwe proves himself ready sooner than later, it’s going to present serious problems for roster cutdowns, since Eligwe is likely to be claimed rather than pass waivers to be placed on the practice squad.

The linebacker position is turning into a deeper unit than expected which will make for some tough decisions near the end of the month.