Four free agent defenders that could give the Kansas City Chiefs draft flexibility
4. TRE BOSTON
Understandably, fans have been clamoring for the team to bring in Tre Boston since free agency began. The Chiefs’ safety group in 2018 was one of its most inconsistent units. Injuries and inexperience plagued the unit in major moments the entire year. It would be ideal to have as much depth at this position as possible heading into 2019.
What’s more, Boston would be an upgrade from almost every Chiefs’ safety currently on the roster. According to Pro Football Focus in 2018, Boston was “Above Average” to “Good” in all defensive categories including run defense, coverage, and tackling. He would undoubtedly be an upgrade over either Jordan Lucas or Armani Watts. Aside from that, he’d give the Chiefs security at the position if the right player doesn’t fall to them in the draft.
Finally, it’s likely Boston would be very cheap. Even though the safety market has rebounded this year, he clearly is being viewed as a second-tier safety by general managers across the league. I don’t think it’s out of the question Veach could sign him to a team-friendly deal.
The Chiefs hired Dave Merritt to coach their defensive backs, who happened to coach Boston in Arizona last season. Some believe this is a sign the Chiefs aren’t interested. I think that’s possible, but also think the Chiefs could be waiting until after the draft to sign another safety. Either way, Boston is absolutely worth a look and he’d be familiar with his position coach.
Next. Five Draft Prospects Worthy of More Attention. dark
Here’s the thing, the Chiefs have a ton of cap space right now. There’s really no reason to carry over $20 million into 2019 unused. Unused cap space is essentially opportunity wasted. There are plenty of players left who the Chiefs could sign to one-year or two-year, incentive laden deals that are extremely favorable to the team. This would give them ultimate draft flexibility to begin building for the future.