Five Chiefs players barely hanging onto a roster spot

DB Dicaprio Bootle

Cornerback Dicaprio Bootle was already coming off a flat performance against the Bears. Unfortunately, things did not get better for him against the Commanders.

Bootle’s lowest point against Washington was a touchdown catch by Commanders wide receiver Cam Sims, where Bootle simply got beat on a short seam route. He couldn’t recover in the short-yardage situation, giving up his first receiving touchdown this preseason. It was one of four catches that Bootle allowed in coverage on Saturday. In total, Bootle has allowed five catches for 54 yards and a touchdown this preseason. Opposing quarterbacks have a stellar passer rating against Bootle, averaging a 143.8 rating.

Bootle did see a lot of defensive work Saturday, playing in 51% of the Chiefs’ defensive snaps. But, there is so much depth in the cornerback room, especially with higher ceiling prospects. Watson and fellow rookie Joshua Williams both already look better than Bootle and have desirable versatility and physical traits.

Chiefs fans and coaches alike want to see Bootle succeed. He looked to be the next man up at slot cornerback, but Sneed and rookie Trent McDuffie fit into that role better. Bootle has not done enough with his preseason opportunities to make the 53-man roster. An injury or lights-out performance against the Green Bay Packers would help Bootle’s case, but he is likely heading back to the Chiefs’ practice squad.