Kansas City Chiefs: Analyzing Andy Reid’s historic use of rookies

BoPete Keyes

After not taking a cornerback early, the Chiefs doubled down on the position when they traded back into the 7th round to take Thakarius “BoPete” Keyes. Keyes is another corner pick who is a little raw, but he has the physical tools the Chiefs seem to like in their outside corners.

In his head coaching career Andy Reid has drafted 33 total defensive backs, with 8 of those coming in the final two rounds. Here are some key averages to consider:

• Reid’s 7th round picks: 6.5 games active, 1.5 games started
• Reid’s DB draft picks: 9.8 games active, 2.0 games started
• Reid’s 6/7th round DB picks: 8.1 games active, 0.5 games started

Once again, the averages tell us not to expect much from Keyes this season. Sixth and seventh round defensive backs have only averaged 0.5 starts their rookie season under coach Reid. That having been said, the number of active games for defensive backs is higher than the typical late round pick average. So if Keyes can show developmental potential and the ability to play special teams, there is certainly a chance for him to stick this season even if he doesn’t get any starts.

When looking at the eight defensive backs Reid has drafted in the late rounds, there aren’t any great comparisons to go with. Kurt Coleman is the most established player of the group, but he’s a safety. In terms of corners, the best option for the Chiefs to hope for is last year’s sixth round pick Rashad Fenton. If, by the end of his rookie season, the Chiefs are showing anywhere near the faith in Keyes that they showed in Fenton, it would be a great sign when compared to other late round DBs that Reid has drafted.

There you have it Chiefs fans. That’s what Andy Reid’s draft history shows us about how he has used his rookies in the past. I hope you found this as interesting and enlightening as I did. I know there were a lot of numbers to go over, but I think the big picture is that outside of the first two rounds, the odds aren’t in favor of the rookies seeing much playing time.

Do you agree with that or do you think that this year’s class could buck the trends that Reid has shown? I’d love to read your thoughts in the comments below.