KC Chiefs vs. 49ers: Three players who can cement their stock
By Matt Conner
Devon Key, Defensive Back
This offseason, the Chiefs signed far fewer rookie free agents than previous recent seasons with general manager Brett Veach at the helm, a sign that the team knew most of their roster spots were already spoken for. After all, there’s no use trying to woo a young unproven player to come and compete in a camp if there’s really no opportunity for him to find his way to any playing time.
One of the few who did land in K.C. this spring was a star in the secondary for the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, defensive back Devon Key.
Key came into camp as an overlooked product in Conference USA play despite being a four-year starter with a reputation as being a tough, physical, and heady player. Since arriving in Kansas City, Key has more than lived up to that rep as a quick learner who has absorbed anything and everything the coaches have given him.
The good news for Key is that he’s also very versatile as the Hilltoppers asked him to play multiple spots in their own pass defense over the years. The Chiefs are asking Key to do a lot as well, but he’s rewarded them with much better play than anyone could have anticipated. Consequently, he’s ranked fairly high on the depth chart.
Of course, preseason depth charts aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on, but it’s a sign from the front office and coaching staff that Key has a real chance to upset expectations at safety. Veterans like Armani Watts and/or Will Parks aren’t going to be handed a job this summer. If Key comes up big for the Chiefs against the Niners, you’re going to hear a lot of buzz about the competition here.