Kansas City Chiefs: Offensive players on the roster bubble
By Jacob Milham
FB Michael Burton
It may be a stretch, but fullback Michael Burton could viably be out of Kansas City.
Burton is entering his second year in Kansas City, after a journeyman career in the NFL. Burton has never been a rushing threat, only logging 55 rushing yards in his seven-year career. But, he does bring quick, downhill blocking when needed for teams. He played in 8% of Kansas City’s offensive snaps in 2021, and 51% of the team’s special team’s snaps as well.
That 2021 offensive snap percentage was the lowest of Burton’s career, due to Reid’s scheme not relying on the traditional fullback. Burton’s body of work came in short-yardage and goalline situations.
#Chiefs Michael Burton’s first touchdown of 2021 pic.twitter.com/RkSivioB0b
— Aaron Ladd (@aaronladdtv) December 17, 2021
Burton’s path to the roster has two possible outcomes. On one hand, Reid traditionally carries a fullback, dating back to his days in Philadelphia. Also, Burton is a valuable member of the special teams unit, a trait that has kept players rostered. Yet, carrying an extra tight end, wide receiver, or offensive lineman might push Burton off the roster. Tight ends Blake Bell and Noah Gray could feasibly replace Burton’s backfield blocking in 2022. Also, Burton does not fit in with the younger and cheaper movement in Kansas City.
Burton staying on this roster seems like the default option. But, after the Cheifs drafted three offensive players that could contribute in 2022, Burton could be on the outside looking in.