The Associated Press
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (11-5)
New faces: DT Vance Walker, LB Joe Mays, rookies OLB Dee Ford, WR/RB De’Anthony Thomas.
Key losses: LT Branden Albert, CB Brandon Flowers, WR/PR Dexter McCluster, OG Jon Asamoah, OG Geoff Schwartz, DT Tyson Jackson.
Strengths: RB, LB, DL, TE.
Weaknesses: OL, DB, WR.
What’s New: Chiefs plan to use tight ends more in passing game now that Travis Kelce is healthy; he missed entire rookie season to injury. Chiefs also experimenting with blitz package featuring four pass-rushing outside linebackers in obvious passing downs, similar to “NASCAR” package used by Seahawks and Giants in recent years.
Expectations: Chiefs surpassed all expectations and went to playoffs last season after winning twice in 2012. This year, could be struggle just to meet expectations. They lost several key players in free agency and will play much more challenging schedule. Chiefs still have enough talent to return to playoffs, but need to stay healthy and have some bounces go their way to compete with Denver in AFC West.
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