KC Chiefs: Surveying the cornerbacks on preseason roster

#1 Lonnie Johnson

College: Kentucky
Years Pro: 4 (26 years old)

Chance of Making the Roster: High

After losing Charvarius Ward to free agency, the Chiefs made a trade for Lonnie Johnson. Johnson recorded a career-high three interceptions in 2021 for the Houston Texans. Now, he will have a real opportunity to compete for the starting job either in the slot or across from L’Jarius Sneed. With a bigger frame and quick feet, Johnson is able to take on receivers of all varieties. With familiarity with newcomer Justin Reid on the back end, Johnson may have a leg up on the rest of the competition. Johnson will have a role on the defense in some way.

#21 Trent McDuffie

College: Washington
Years Pro: Rookie (21 years old)
Chance of Making the Roster: Lock

Trent McDuffie has the distinction of being the first pick of the 2022 draft class. General manager Brett Veach admitted after making the selection that he did not anticipate a scenario in which McDuffie would slide to the Chiefs. Luckily for the Chiefs, he was and now he may just step up into a starting role. McDuffie is a smaller defensive back with excellent instincts and athleticism. If he can step in and do just as well as Charvarius Ward, the cornerback room would be better than just a season ago. Keep a close eye as to whether he plays inside or out, or a combination of the two during training camp.

#26 Chris Lammons

College: South Carolina
Years Pro: 3 (26 years old)
Chance of Making the Roster: On the bubble

Chris Lammons has been a very important figure to Dave Toub’s group on special teams. Unfortunately for the special teams and for the Lammons, he faces a serious suspension after his involvement in an assault involving New Orleans running back Alvin Kamara in Las Vegas. Lammons is, for now, on the roster. Will he be for the start of the season? That will depend on how important the team thinks he is to the success.