Three defensive players whose jobs are at risk
By Jacob Milham
S Juan Thornhill
Safety Juan Thornhill was once the heir-apparent to Matthieu. Now entering his fourth year in Kansas City, Thornhill has one last chance to make his case.
Thornhill, a former Virginia Cavalier, joined the Chiefs in 2019 as the 63rd overall pick. He posted a solid rookie year, starting all 16 games. Injuries and inconsistent play have plagued Thornhill since though. in 2021, he was benched in favor of safety Daniel Sorenson at one point. If fans remember anything about Sorenson in 2021, it was how awful he played. But, Thornhill clawed his way back into the starting lineup, and his resurgence coincided with the defense turning it around last year.
Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has several packages that bring three safeties onto the field. That scheme should see Thornhill continue to contribute, but Kansas City is already prepared for a life without him. The Chiefs signed Justin Reid and Deon Bush, plus drafted Bryan Cook and Nazeeh Johnson. That is a crowded safety room with some immense potential.
Thornhill is the incumbent starter for Spagnuolo though, so his scheme knowledge gives Thornhill an edge. If Thornhill has fully adjusted and recovered from his ACL tear, then Thornhill could really perform well in 2022. But, the potential of seeing Cook or Johnson get more snaps is enticing for the frugal Chiefs front office.
Thornhill’s roster spot is safe. His starting role, as the season progresses, may not be. The tandem of Cook and Reid could be the Chiefs’ future. If Thornhill does not improve or the injury bug comes back, Thornhill may end his Kansas City tenure with a whimper.