KC Chiefs: Breaking down the competition at safety
By Grant Tuttle
The safety position is one of the most intriguing on the roster. With a complete group of new players, we discuss the 2022-2023 Kansas City safeties.
The Kansas City Chiefs transformed the entire defense, but one of the positions with the most overall turnover was the safety position. With an influx of youth and physicality, the safety group is one of the most interesting groups on the team. So, who are the new folks and who is returning? We’ve got you covered.
#20 Justin Reid
College: Stanford=
Years Pro: 5 (25 years old)=
Chance of Making the Roster: Lock
The Chiefs biggest move in free agency was to sign Justin Reid to a 3-year, $31.5 million deal. Reid was the replacement for Tyrann Mathieu, who was one of the greatest free agent signings in franchise history. Reid has big shoes to fill, to say the least. He seems to be prepared and excited for the upcoming challenge. He could have a career year and play on the best team of his NFL career. Reid will be one of the leaders on this new-look defense.
#22 Juan Thornhill
College: Virginia
Years Pro: 4 (26 years old)
Chance of Making the Roster: High
Juan Thornhill is one of the more intriguing veterans at training camp this season. Entering his fourth season, Thornhill will be given an opportunity to take over one of the leading roles on the defense. After a couple seasons of being overshadowed by other vets, Thornhill seems poised to be the top free safety on the roster. In one role or another, Thornhill will make the team. It remains to be seen whether he or a newcomer will fill the top safety role across from Justin Reid.
#6 Bryan Cook
College: Cincinnati
Years Pro: Rookie (22 years old)
Chance of Making the Roster: Lock
The Chiefs 2022 draft class was lauded as one of the best in the NFL. With Trent McDuffie and George Karlaftis at the top of the bunch, it is easy to forget that Bryan Cook was their fourth pick and their second in the second round. Cook is an aggressive hitter with tremendous athleticism. Cook was a huge part of the defensive success that the Cincinnati Bearcats had last season. Now, he will have the opportunity to take on Juan Thornhill and Deon Bush for significant playing time. Look for Cook to become a key contributor early in training camp.