KC Chiefs hoping for sophomore step up from ’21 rookies

Joshua Kaindoh

If there’s a single player on this list that has the front office and coaching staff praying to the heavens for a leap in ability, it’s Joshua Kaindoh.

One year into Kaindoh’s professional career and it seems that fans know as much about his pro ceiling as they did last summer when he was taken as a longshot project with the first of the team’s Day 3 picks. That’s frustrating because the Chiefs would likely love to see Kaindoh with more reps under his belt at this stage. However, this is a contending team and the Chiefs can’t afford to have someone completely learn on the fly. Injuries also didn’t help matters for Kaindoh.

This year, Kaindoh has a wide-open door to meaningful playing time behind the presumed starting duo of Frank Clark and George Karlaftis on the edges. Mike Danna is also around to provide rotational reps, but if Kaindoh can provide 15-20 meaningful reps outside and not embarrass himself or the team, that would be a big step forward.

The good news for Kaindoh is that the natural skill set is there, which is why Veach took a chance on a player who exhibited so little production in his final two seasons at Florida State (1 sack). The length and burst, bend and quickness are all there, but it’s up to Kaindoh to put it together on the field of play.