KC Chiefs vs. 49ers: Key takeaways from the preseason opener

Chris Jones will threaten from all over

Entering training camp, Chris Jones expressed his desire to expand his role to playing snaps at defensive end. The 27-year-old defensive tackle made a few changes to his diet and exercise routine to lose some weight.

Against the 49ers, Jones played multiple snaps at defensive end and came up with a sack on Trey Lance at defensive tackle. He did not flash much from the edge, but he is still a threat from the interior. Jones looked a lot slimmer and even quicker off the line.

With the addition of Jarran Reed, look for Kansas City to utilize Jones at defensive end in plenty of situations this upcoming season while continuing to lean on him as an interior disruptor.

More opportunities for CEH

It was made clear in the offseason that the Chiefs wanted to get their running backs more involved in the offense. The Chiefs’ first two drives consisted of a total of 10 plays. Out of those 10 plays, Clyde Edwards-Helaire had five touches, including a catch.

This is not to say that Edwards-Helaire is going to have the majority of the offensive touches, but it is a sign that Kansas City wants its second-year running back to have more opportunities. The former LSU Tiger was underwhelming last season, but he still possesses skills that should be utilized in this offense.

When defenses prepare for the Chiefs, Edwards-Helaire is not going to be on the top of their list of who to stop. With all the attention on Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce, the 22-year-old running back should have many opportunities with the ball in open space. A checkdown here and there can turn into a 20-yard play because of the space that Hill and Kelce open up. It is something to watch during these next couple of weeks.