KC Chiefs vs. Browns: Nick Bolton is the real deal and other takeaways

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ST JOSEPH, MISSOURI – JULY 28: Wide receiver Gehrig Dieter #12 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs up field against linebacker Nick Bolton #54, during training camp at Missouri Western State University on July 28, 2021 in St Joseph, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images) /

The K.C. Chiefs overcame plenty of adversity and multiple double-digit deficits in the team’s 33-29 victory over Cleveland. There were many emotions and reactions after the game on Sunday.

Everyone is going to be talking about Tyrann Mathieu’s absence, Patrick Mahomes’ brilliance, and the electricity of the offense. However, there are other topics that must be covered. Let’s take a look at some takeaways.

Nick Bolton is the Real Deal

It is an overreaction to say Nick Bolton is going to be a star linebacker after one game, but the rookie linebacker showed plenty of flashes against the Browns on Sunday. The second-round pick showed why the Chiefs were more than happy to select him at 58th overall in the 2021 draft.

Bolton collected four solo tackles and three assisted tackles against Cleveland. The Chiefs were gashed by Cleveland’s rushing attack, giving up nearly six yards per carry. Stopping the run was not necessarily why I was so impressed with Bolton, but he did make a huge tackle down the stretch on Nick Chubb. What was so impressive about Bolton was his open-field tackling. Bolton was very quick to runners, and would close them down with impressive speed. The 21-year-old linebacker showed great anticipation and utilized that to stop runners in their paths.

Bolton showed that he is ready to be an every-down player for this defense.

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