What should Chiefs fans expect from Cameron Erving in 2018 after a full offseason with the team? There are reasons to expect meaningful contribution.
Late last summer, then newly-minted general manager Brett Veach swapped a 2018 fifth round pick for OL Cameron Erving. Erving was a former first round draft pick of the Cleveland Browns, who had never quite lived up to that billing.
Erving saw some action last season, but amidst a myriad of other action may have gotten lost in the shuffle of many fans’ minds. What should we expect from after a full offseason with the Chiefs?
It’s easy to see the words “former first-rounder traded” and be skeptical, but the former Florida State Seminole was highly touted in 2015. Some commentators even had him going to the Chiefs in mock drafts. And as the previously linked article lays out, it made a lot of sense: the Chiefs had just lost center Rodney Hudson and Erving played multiple positions in college, something Andy Reid covets in his offensive linemen.
However, as the old adage goes: “jack of all trades, master of none.” Erving was unable to blossom in Cleveland into the dominant interior lineman some had projected (though that’s more the rule there than the exception, as Cleveland’s loyal fans can attest to). He started 17 games over two seasons, and talent deprived Cleveland traded him away. Even last season with Kansas City, Erving saw limited action on an oft-injured O-line, but there are reasons to expect improvement.
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For starters, the Chiefs coaching staff is as equipped as any to unlock the talent of Erving. Erving will have stability around him in scheme and personnel. Also remember he was not a participant in Chiefs training camp last year, a crucial time for offensive linemen development given the limited in-season padded practices. That Erving is entering his fourth season does not mean he cannot make significant developmental strides, and look no further than Zach Fulton’s elevated performance last season for a tremendous example. Fulton is also who Erving is being compared to by Andy Reid
Secondly, there is opportunity along the interior offensive line. Fulton is gone, Mitch Morse is coming back from injury, and Bryan Witzman’s role is unclear. The left guard spot is completely up in the air heading into training camp. Even if Erving cannot secure the starting spot during camp, he will likely be a top reserve. In the NFL top reserve linemen play a lot.
Finally, Erving is highly motivated to perform this season. The Chiefs declined to pick up his fifth year option earlier this offseason, so he will hit the open market at the end of this season in all likelihood. Erving seeks that coveted second contract, and will command one if he performs anywhere near that first round billing.
Maybe it’s peak offseason that has me believing Erving should have a solid season. Regardless, the competition at the left guard between Erving, Witzman, Parker Ehinger, and newcomer Ryan Hunter is great for the Chiefs. Erving will certainly be in the mix and should at the very least provide decent depth. Let me know what you all think!