After an embarrassing finish to his run as Notre Dame head coach, Charlie Weis has returned to the NFL, as the Chief's offensive coordinator. With him running an offense rich in talent, the Chiefs could definitely have a big improvement from last year's 4-12 record. Quarterback Matt Cassell will have to prove that his successful season in New England wasn't just a fluke, and Pioli has given him the tools to do so. Dynamic runningback Jamaal Charles and vet Thomas Jones should power a quality run game. Dwayne Bowe and Chris Chambers are reportedly having outstanding camps, while rookie scatback Dexter McCluster and rookie tightend Tony Moeaki will provide Cassell with additional playmakers. If he stumbles, I wouldn't be surprised if Brodie Croyle (go 'Bama!) is given another shot since the rumor in Kansas City is that he has looked brilliant in camp thus far. Even the offensive line, recently a concern for Chiefs fans, has apparently impressed, with 2nd year pro Branden Albert showing a big improvement from last year. This Chiefs offense could actually do some damage, but unfortunately the defense may have another brutal year.
Pioli seemed to forget about his front 7 this off season adding no players to one of the worst run defenses in the league last year. New defensive coordinator Romeo Crennell should help, but he isn't working with much. Former top 5 picks Glenn Dorsey and Tyson Jackson will have to step up their play in order to provide stability to a defensive line that lacks a starting nose tackle. The linebacking corps isn't much better, as they will rely on Tamba Hali and Mike Vrabel to generate a pass rush. Basically, opposing quarterbacks will have all the time in the world to pick apart a subpar defensive backfield. Corner Brandon Flowers, safety Kendrick Lewis, and rookie safety Eric Berry have apparently looked good in camp so far, but aside from those 3 the Chiefs secondary has looked as if they do not belong in the NFL. Rookie corner Javier Arenas (Alabama) was initially touted as a great pick, but he looks lost in camp. Brandon Carr (most likely the the no. 2 corner) has disappointed the coaching staff as well. If the Chiefs want to have success this season the defense will have to be able to get off the field and as of now it doesn't look like that will happen aside from the opposition waltzing into the endzone.
Second year coach Todd Haley has a lot of talent and a smart coaching staff around him, but I think the Chiefs need another off season (addressing the defense) in order to be a contender. Then again the AFC West looks to be wide open this year so anything could happen.
No comments:
Post a Comment