#2 L’Jarius Sneed
Fenton’s mirror in the secondary, Sneed has also taken a jump forward with his play in 2021. Currently second on the Chiefs defense in tackles (58), behind Nick Bolton (79). Sneed has had one of the most surprising jumps in consistency throughout 2021. Having only given up 49 catches on 65 targets, Sneed has some work to do in the pass coverage department but has proven himself to be an above-average tackler in the secondary which provides valuable depth and increased ability to move him around in different defensive looks and coverages.
With two interceptions on the year, and stringing together tackles at a clip that doesn’t seem normal for a cornerback, it seems at times that Sneed is almost a modified linebacker/corner who can still track down and run with wide receivers. With a stellar interception in Week 9 over (arguably the best wide receiver in the league) Davante Adams, L’Jarius has shown up in big moments and looks to be hitting his stride during the back half of the season.
Much like Fenton, if not this year, Sneed is coming into his own as an NFL Pro and it looks like he’s here to stay.