KC Chiefs free agency: The case of super special-teamer Dorian O’Daniel

Recommendation

The Kansas City Chiefs defense and special teams are not the primary reason for their season being over. Now, there are still spots on the defense that need major overhauling. The linebacker corps is arguably the most stable right now, even with many predicted changes. Hitchens is likely out, as well as Niemann. There is an argument for continuity, keeping O’Daniel around because he knows defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s system. Yet, fans cannot see how well he knows the system in so few reps.

Solid special teams play has been a Kansas City calling card for quite some time. It is a matter of pride and performance for Toub and the Chiefs. Players like O’Daniel quietly play an important role in the unit’s success. He is a glue guy for the unit and certainly an example for younger players to follow.

It may not be sexy, but O’Daniel should be back on a cheap deal. For any other team, he would have to prove defensive chops to have a chance at the team. For Kansas City, the coaches know who he is and what he brings. If he does return, there is a clear case for him to see more defensive resp to make any financial commitment more palatable.

Prediction

O’Daniel returns on a two-year likely-minimum deal, worth no more than $3 million total. Even if a deal is done, O’Daniel would still be a bubble player entering the 2022 season.