January

Jan. 8, 2009   

Chiefs have critical decision to make at QB position

In an offseason full of intrigue in Kansas City, we hear the Chiefs’ most compelling decision will be the one they make at quarterback. With Damon Huard likely gone and Brodie Croyle too brittle to be handed the reins, Tyler Thigpen is the only legitimate QB currently on the roster. But even though he showed flashes of brilliance last season, Thigpen still finished with a 1-10 record as a starter. That means unless they go after a potential free agent like Matt Cassel, the Chiefs’ only option will be to address the need on Draft Day. If past tendencies are any indicator, K.C. might opt to avoid taking a QB with the third overall pick and instead try to find a sleeper in the middle rounds. Considering that they haven’t used a first-round selection on a QB in 26 years and would prefer not to invest a huge sum of money in one player, their new GM very well could take this safe approach.

December

Dec. 31, 2008   

RB Johnson among veterans whose time in K.C. might be up

Larry Johnson

Once the 2-14 Chiefs get their new general manager — and possibly their new head coach — in place, they’ll have some major decisions to make regarding a few of their top veteran players.

The first man whose future they will need to decide is RB Larry Johnson. Johnson’s tenure in Kansas City has been marred by numerous off-field incidents, leading him to openly express his desire to leave K.C. following the team’s Week 17 loss. He said that he feels he’s a poor fit for the current offense and thinks the city has had just about enough of him. He also added that the hiring of a new coach wouldn’t change his mind.

Although it may seem as though parting ways with L.J. would be in the club’s best interest, we hear that doing so could be easier said than done. The Chiefs likely would have to absorb a large portion of Johnson’s monster contract if they were to get rid of him, and they’d also have to take a sizable cap hit. Plus, given the 29-year-old’s diminishing numbers over the past two seasons, K.C. almost certainly couldn’t acquire a first-day draft choice for him.

While Johnson’s situation is fairly complicated, those of a couple other Chiefs vets are a bit simpler to figure out. We understand that the age and health of LB Donnie Edwards make it unlikely that he’ll return to the team next season. Edwards, who’ll be 36 when the ’09 campaign kicks off, dealt with various injuries this season, limiting him to just seven games. He may even opt to hang it up altogether.

CB Patrick Surtain is another old-timer who probably has played his last game as a Chief. The corner will turn 33 this summer and doesn’t fit in with the franchise’s youth movement, which became obvious when fifth-round rookie Brandon Carr took Surtain's starting spot early in the season. Playing in just eight games because of injuries, Surtain finished with a dismal 11 tackles and one interception.

Kansas City’s most difficult dilemma will be deciding what to do with TE Tony Gonzalez, who is coming off yet another terrific season. Odds are Gonzalez won’t waver on his desire to be traded, but the offense would be losing its most valuable asset if the Chiefs deal him away. Moreover, the next GM wouldn’t exactly earn many fans in K.C. if one of his first moves was trading the beloved tight end.

Dec. 24, 2008   

Edwards unlikely to survive regime change in K.C.

Head coach Herm Edwards might be standing behind the Chiefs’ decision to inject youth into the roster in an effort to rebuild, but from what we hear, his job is far from safe. Edwards, a loser of 22 of his past 24 games, has some support in Kansas City from owner Clark Hunt, but the recent resignation of GM Carl Peterson — Edwards’ close friend — doesn’t bode well for the coach’s future. Regardless of whom Hunt hires to replace Peterson, the new GM will have plenty of reason to justify cutting Edwards loose. Besides his abysmal record, the coach has mishandled some of the team’s younger talent, especially DT Glenn Dorsey, who we understand has been used in a puzzling capacity during his rookie campaign. Also, Edwards repeatedly has absolved his coaching staff of any blame, instead pointing the finger at his players; in reality, the coaches are as much at fault as anyone for their 2-13 record. When all’s said and done in K.C., it’s very likely that the next GM will want to begin his regime with a fresh head coach in place.

Dec. 19, 2008   

Pats' Pioli among top candidates for Chiefs' GM vacancy

Updated at 10:10 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 22

With the resignation of Chiefs president/GM/CEO Carl Peterson, speculation is swirling as to who will be the team’s next general manager. The most bandied-about name has been that of Patriots VP of player personnel Scott Pioli, who is respected league-wide for the job he has done for helping make New England a consistent winner. Many clubs will be after Pioli, so K.C. might be forced to look elsewhere. From what we hear, owner Clark Hunt greatly admires the Steelers’ organization, making Pittsburgh’s pro personnel coordinator, Doug Whaley, a possible candidate. Other names being discussed include Eagles GM Tom Heckert, Buccaneers director of pro personnel Mark Dominik and former Chiefs head coach Marty Schottenheimer. Whoever gets the job has his work cut out for him, and whether or not his plans will include current coach Herm Edwards remains to be seen.

Dec. 11, 2008   

Chiefs hoping a shift to the middle ignites LB Johnson

With injuries decimating their linebacking corps, the Chiefs opted to shift LB Derrick Johnson from the outside to the middle prior to the Week 14 game at Denver. But while the team suggests the move was made to insert life into the defense, we hear that it was more like a sign of desperation. It’s true that Johnson has shown flashes of brilliance since coming to K.C. as a first-round pick in '05, but he has failed to sustain the high level of play that many expected from him coming out of college. From what we hear, the Chiefs hope that by giving Johnson added responsibility in the middle, it will trigger a positive response in the fourth-year veteran that will make him a better overall player. Also, since MLB Pat Thomas wasn’t exactly shining as a starter, it injects a heavy dose of talent at an integral defensive spot. How Johnson performs in the remaining weeks likely will determine whether or not he remains in the middle in 2009.

Dec. 4, 2008   

Chiefs have offensive pieces in place for '09 success

Updated at 9:35 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 8

Positives are hard to come by on a 2-11 team, but the Chiefs’ offense actually has displayed a surprising number of them. A group without an identity earlier this season, the unit has made significant strides in the past month and has proven to have quite a few pieces that deserve to stick around in ’09.

It all starts under center, where Tyler Thigpen looks to possibly have the makings of a full-time starting quarterback. Since the Chiefs shifted to a spread attack in Week Eight, Thigpen has been very efficient in leading the offense, even picking up his first career win in Week 13 at Oakland. We do hear that K.C. has scouted college QBs heavily this season, so it’s still possible that they will use an early pick on one in next year’s draft. But either way, Thigpen has carved out a role with this team going forward.

The same can be said for WR Mark Bradley, who has been a revelation since the club signed him a month into the season. Bradley has been the impact No. 2 wideout that Kansas City has been missing for years, and he has a great chance to start for them in ’09. Given his injury history and the lack of talent behind him, however, we understand the team likely will pursue another receiver in the offseason.

Things haven’t been quite as steady on the offensive line, but we hear the Chiefs believe they have solidified the left side with the addition of rookie OLT Branden Albert. Along with OLG Brian Waters and C Rudy Niswanger, the team has 60 percent of its line set for next season. Changes are expected on the right side, though, where ORG Adrian Jones and ORT Damion McIntosh haven’t impressed. Shoring up that side of the O-line will be one of K.C.’s top priorities this spring.

Perhaps the franchise’s most interesting decisions will revolve around mainstays TE Tony Gonzalez and RB Larry Johnson. Despite not being granted his trade request, Gonzalez’s play has been off the charts in recent weeks, proving that he has plenty left in the tank. Johnson, too, has adjusted well to the spread offense, and he has stayed out of trouble off the field.

From what we hear, the Chiefs will listen to trade offers for this pair, but they certainly will not deal either of them at a discount. And if they both remain in K.C., this offense really could take off next season.

November

Nov. 26, 2008   

Laughable Chiefs pass rush has opposing offenses choosing air over ground

Updated at 8:40 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 1

While the statistics may show that the Chiefs’ run defense has improved — after all, they’re no longer ranked dead last and have allowed only two runs of 20-plus yards in the past five games — don’t think that their D-line suddenly has made major strides. It’s true that they haven’t been getting gashed on the ground, but we hear that you can credit that to a change in strategy by opposing offenses. Realizing Kansas City can generate no pass rush — its six sacks in ’08 is easily the NFL’s lowest total — teams have shifted away from the run and have opted to drop back and pass more often, knowing they’ll have plenty of time to check down if no one is open downfield. That’s why running backs have been catching so many passes against K.C. in recent weeks. Although DTs Glenn Dorsey and Tank Tyler have gotten marginally better at stuffing the run, don’t heap praise on the young duo in the middle yet.

Nov. 20, 2008   

With coaching staff feeling heat, Chiefs' Edwards puts onus on players

Updated at 10:00 a.m. CST Monday, Nov. 24

Obviously, there is plenty of blame to go around on a one-win team like the Chiefs, but head coach Herm Edwards believes that he and his staff have done their part to get back on track. In his Week 12 press conference, Edwards stated that his coaches have put the team in a position to win lately, but that the players simply have not executed well enough to do so. This shifting of responsibility came off as a bit strange, and the way we hear it, Edwards likely made these comments to cover for his coaches, many of whom he is surely under pressure to get rid of. Defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham and his assistants undoubtedly are feeling the most heat, as the Chiefs’ defense (K.C. gave up 54 points in last week’s loss) easily has been one of the NFL’s worst. With the unit’s young players making little progress, it’s very possible that major staff changes will be made on that side of the ball.

Nov. 13, 2008   

Chiefs' new spread attack could be unfriendly to returning RB Johnson

RB Larry Johnson has been the focal point of the Chiefs’ offense since the 2005 season, but a change in philosophy might force him to take a reduced role going forward. Even with Johnson, who was either inactive or suspended for the past four games, returning this week, we hear that K.C. has no plans to ditch its successful pass-first spread attack. Installed in Week Eight to make QB Tyler Thigpen more comfortable, this scheme has led to three of the team’s top four offensive outputs of ’08. From what we hear, Johnson could be asked to adapt his game to better fit the system, as his straight-ahead running style won’t necessarily work in this new formation. In fact, a smaller, quicker back like rookie Jamaal Charles might be more suitable for the team’s spread look, but he has been hobbled with an ankle injury. It will be interesting to see how L.J. handles his scaled-back role come Sunday.

Nov. 6, 2008   

Despite 1-7 record, Chiefs pleased with overall progress of rookies

Updated at 9:30 a.m. CST Monday, Nov. 10

Entering 2008 with lots of holes in the depth chart and six draft picks in the first three rounds, the Chiefs knew they’d be relying upon rookies heavily in this, a rebuilding year. At the season’s midway point — although the team’s record might not reflect it — the results have been mostly positive.

From what we hear, the club has been very satisfied with the progress of OLT Branden Albert, the 15th overall selection. Albert, who primarily played guard in college, has made a smooth transition to the OLT position, considered the most difficult spot on the O-line. And while he has been bitten by the injury bug and his play hasn’t always been perfect, the Chiefs believe Albert will be a cornerstone on their line for years to come.

Also pleasing Kansas City thus far is second-round CB Brandon Flowers, whom we understand the team loves. Flowers, who missed Week 10 with a thigh injury, has started seven games, recording 37 tackles and intercepting two passes. He has also displayed toughness and a mean streak that the defense had been lacking.

At the other corner, fifth-rounder Brandon Carr has surprised with his immediaite contributions. Already supplanting veteran Patrick Surtain in the lineup, the Grand Valley State product has racked up 45 tackles and picked off two throws in nine starts, making the jump from Division II to the NFL look easy.

Third-round RB Jamaal Charles has given the Chiefs all they could ask for. In addition to gaining an impressive 5.5 yards per carry, the dual-threat back is also fourth on the team in receptions. And against the stout Buccaneers defense in Week Nine, he ran for 106 yards on 18 attempts.

Another third-rounder, TE Brad Cottam, also has turned out to be a nice pick for K.C. Besides his solid blocking ability, Cottam has made strides as a pass catcher, even splitting out wide in certain offensive formations.

The one rookie disappointment so far has been their highest draft choice, fifth overall selection DT Glenn Dorsey. Expected to step right in and be a force in the middle of the team’s inexperienced D-line, Dorsey has contributed just 25 tackles and one sack. We also hear that he has some technique issues, such as taking on blockers too upright, that need to be fixed.

October

Oct. 30, 2008   

Chiefs QB Thigpen finds niche in spread attack

Updated at 9:25 a.m. CST Monday, Nov. 3

With RB Larry Johnson deactivated by the team and the shaky, inexperienced Tyler Thigpen under center, the Chiefs needed to devise a new way to move the ball. Enter the spread offense. Designing game plans that would make Thigpen comfortable and play to his strengths, offensive coordinator Chan Gailey implemented a college-like spread attack in Weeks Eight and Nine — and it produced terrific results. In Week Eight, Thigpen threw for 280 yards with two TD passes and no interceptions, getting little-used targets like WR Mark Bradley and TE Brad Cottam involved and hitting seven different receivers. In Week Nine, Thigpen threw for 164 yards with one TD and no picks. He also scored on a trick play, catching a 37-yard TD pass thrown by Bradley. K.C. will continue to use this offense, which is similar to one Thigpen played in at Coastal Carolina, until defenses figure it out.

Oct. 23, 2008   

Chiefs likely stuck with delinquent RB Johnson

The recent off-field conduct of RB Larry Johnson has the Chiefs quickly souring on their top offensive player. He now has had four separate run-ins with the law — all involving alleged assaults toward women — since joining the club, including one during K.C.’s Week Six bye. But unfortunately for them, that behavior — not to mention the gigantic contract he signed in 2007 — also has many other teams uneager to deal with the former Pro Bowler. The way we hear it, Johnson’s diminishing value leaves the Chiefs with little choice but to stick with him and hope his attitude improves both on and off the field. They already have deactivated Johnson for each of the last two games, and a suspension from the league very possibly could be around the corner. The team undoubtedly will explore trade options for L.J. this offseason, but a suitor willing to take on his baggage might be hard to come by.

Oct. 16, 2008   

Chiefs' youthful D-line showing little progress

Updated at 10:05 a.m. EDT Monday. Oct. 20

Knowing they had little chance to contend in 2008, the Chiefs were at least hoping to see progress in their young players. But so far, their four starting defensive linemen — all chosen in the past three drafts — have contributed next to nothing. Through six games, the quartet has not recorded a sack, nor have they been effective stopping the run. Although the team knew it could take DE Turk McBride and DTs Glenn Dorsey and Tank Tyler time to adjust to playing in the NFL, they are struggling to find an explanation for the poor play of DE Tamba Hali. Expected to be a ferocious pass rusher, Hali’s numbers have declined since his rookie campaign, and from what we hear, the team is afraid the ’06 first-rounder is approaching bust status. If Hali doesn’t show improvement in the remainder of ’08, the Chiefs might be forced to select yet another D-lineman early in next year’s draft.

Oct. 9, 2008   

Despite 1-4 start, jobs of Chiefs GM Peterson, coach Edwards look safe

With the Chiefs off to a 1-4 start and no indications of improvement in sight, fans and media alike are calling for heads to roll. Whether it be someone in the front office, coaching staff or both, the people of Kansas City are awaiting a public execution. The way we hear it, however, the drastic changes they’re looking for don’t appear to be on the horizon.

Chiefs president/GM/CEO Carl Peterson, the man responsible for the current makeup of the roster, would seem to be the obvious fall guy for the team’s struggles. After all, he is the one who decided that this course of action was in the best interest of the organization. But we hear Peterson made some commitments to late owner Lamar Hunt that he intends to fulfill.

Two of the major ones — guiding the franchise through its transition period and overseeing the renovations to Arrowhead Stadium — should be complete by the end of the 2009 season, which just happens to be when Peterson’s contract is up. He has expressed privately that at that point, he fully plans to retire, and if present Chiefs owner Clark Hunt is anything like his father, he will allow Peterson to do just that.

We understand that Lamar Hunt was extremely patient — sometimes to a fault — which is one of the main reasons why Peterson has remained in power for 20 seasons despite the fact that K.C. hasn’t won a playoff game since 1993. And unless Clark Hunt has a dramatically different philosophy, Peterson is not expected to be fired before his contract expires.

The same goes for head coach Herm Edwards, whom Peterson trusts to help rebuild the club. If Peterson is only planning to stick around for another season, it’s very unlikely that he would axe Edwards, a close friend of his, before he leaves town.

When Kansas City does finally decide to make changes in its front office, though, we hear that a serious overhaul can be expected. The team will not have one person handle the responsibilities of GM, CEO and president, as Peterson is doing. Instead, Hunt is likely to hire different individuals for these positions, so as not to have one man ruling over all facets of the organization. That is just one of many alterations Chiefs fans will see — beginning in 2010.

Oct. 2, 2008   

Rookie CB Carr could keep Surtain on the bench in K.C.

Updated at 9:24 a.m. EDT Monday, Oct. 6

It’s not often that a three-time Pro Bowler loses his job to a fifth-round rookie, but that scenario is playing out in Kansas City. Veteran CB Patrick Surtain, who missed two games with a shoulder injury, returned to action in Week Five but did not regain his starting spot. That’s because Brandon Carr, the 140th pick in the ’08 draft out of Grand Valley State (Mich.), has outperformed Surtain during his three games as a starter, recording 19 solo tackles and an interception. Carr was especially key in the Chiefs’ Week Four victory over the Broncos, defending three passes and coming up with a crucial pick late. With rookie Brandon Flowers already starting at one cornerback spot, Carr’s promotion gives K.C. two first-year players starting at corner. But with the Chiefs in rebuilding mode, that is more beneficial than continuing to start the 32-year-old Surtain.

September

Sept. 25, 2008   

Stagnant offense isn't only unit to blame for Chiefs' poor start

Updated at 9:10 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 29

For as much grief as the Chiefs’ offense has taken for the team’s early-season struggles, the defense was almost equally responsible for their 0-3 start. Kansas City has been horrible at stopping the run, giving up 5.3 yards per rush and 176.5 yards on the ground per game. They’ve also had difficulties against the pass, ranking near the bottom of the league by allowing 7.0 yards per pass play. Because of this ineptitude, we hear that the Chiefs’ defensive players have been hesitant to speak out against the failing offense, knowing that the blame rests on their shoulders, as well. In fact, LB Derrick Johnson said as much last week, declaring that K.C. should still be able to remain competitive even when they have trouble moving the ball. The Chiefs moved the ball just fine on the ground in their Week Four upset of the Broncos, racking up 213 rushing yards. However, the Chiefs’ defense surrendered 446 net yards.

Sept. 18, 2008   

Size of RB Johnson's role will depend on Chiefs' ability to stay in games

Updated at 9:23 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 22

RB Larry Johnson is no stranger to throwing fits, and the enigmatic back threw another one after the team’s Week Two loss to Oakland. Johnson, who had a meager 12 carries for 22 yards vs. the Raiders, expressed frustration with his lack of touches and said that he did not envision himself as part of the team’s future. However, the air was cleared after Johnson met with coach Herm Edwards and offensive coordinator Chan Gailey. The coaches assured him that he remained the offensive focal point but also told Johnson that they’d have trouble getting him 20-25 carries if the Chiefs continue to fall behind early and have to go into pass mode. Despite trailing big in Week Three, Johnson had 24 carries for 121 yards. With the club having a better blocker in RB Kolby Smith and a more explosive pass catcher in RB Jamaal Charles, the need for Johnson’s running ability is greatly diminished if K.C. is trailing big.

Sept. 11, 2008   

Chiefs QB Croyle could be down to final strike

Updated at 8:50 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 15

Chiefs QB Brodie Croyle

Unless Brodie Croyle suddenly becomes a picture of health, his days as the Chiefs’ top quarterback could be numbered.

Already known as someone with durability questions, Croyle suffered yet another injury in Week One when he separated his shoulder on a hit by Patriots LB Adalius Thomas. He’s expected to be sidelined for 2-4 weeks.

The way we hear it, Croyle might have only one more shot to prove to Kansas City that he can physically hold up over a significant stretch of games. In his seven starts — the Chiefs have lost all seven — Croyle has suffered an injury in three different contests. For a guy expected to be a franchise quarterback, that’s not exactly a good track record.

Following his latest injury, word is that Croyle’s leash is beginning to shorten up, and it could get extremely short upon his return. Although Damon Huard started Sunday in Croyle’s absence, he threw only four passes — one of which was intercepted — before suffering a mild head injury. That allowed second-year player Tyler Thigpen to play a majority of the contest. He didn’t exactly impress, completing 14-of-33 attempts for 151 yards with one touchdown and one interception, but he wasn’t necessarily expected to in his first significant NFL action.

If Thigpen, whose rollout style is a better fit for offensive coordinator Chan Gailey’s system, can improve in the coming weeks as he gains more experience, the pressure on Croyle will mount even higher.

Croyle has been assured he’ll get the starting gig back once he’s healthy, but we’re hearing that this very likely will be the Chiefs’ final guarantee to him. If injuries force the 2006 third-rounder out yet again, the team finally might pull the plug on any hopes of Croyle being their quarterback of the future.

Whether or not Thigpen is the long-term answer remains to be seen, but he’ll certainly get an opportunity to prove that he could be. If he fails to inspire, expect president/GM/CEO Carl Peterson to look long and hard at a quarterback in the first round of the ’09 draft — provided Peterson’s still around by then.

Sept. 4, 2008   

Given Chiefs' track record with kickers, Novak might not last long

If you’re a Chiefs placekicker, your job is far from safe. The team proved this just weeks ago when they signed veteran PK Jay Feely, only to cut him one day later. From what we hear, the Chiefs had intended to make Feely their full-time kicker to begin the season, but they didn’t like his performance during his first two practices and decided they had seen enough. They have since handed over placekicking duties to journeyman Nick Novak, but he might not last long, either. We hear that the Chiefs, knowing that they’ll need every single point given the sad state of their offense, won’t hesitate to bring in another leg if Novak gets off to a shaky start. Last season, the team drafted PK Justin Medlock in the fifth round and then released him after Week One, even though he converted 1-of-2 FG attempts. If Novak doesn’t impress, this quick trigger could be pointed at him before long.

August

Aug. 22, 2008   

Chiefs' diminutive KR Savage making improbable run at roster spot

Not many 5-8, 182-pound undrafted rookies find a way to stick in the NFL, but the Chiefs’ Dantrell Savage might defy the odds. The Oklahoma State product was signed in the offseason to give the team some depth at running back and on special teams, but he was given little chance of making the final roster. The way we hear it, however, his excellent play in training camp and preseason action could have him in the lead for top kick-returning duties. His performance in Kansas City’s second exhibition contest — three kickoff returns for 99 yards — had head coach Herm Edwards singing his praises. Although Savage is not the fastest and certainly not the biggest of guys, Edwards loves the maximum effort and toughness that the rookie brings to the table. Helping Savage’s prospects is the fact that Edwards hasn’t been thrilled with the play thus far of free-agent acquisition B.J. Sams, whom the Chiefs brought in to be their return specialist. If Savage keeps performing at a high level for the remainder of the preseason, he very well could steal away a job that Sams likely figured he had locked up.

Aug. 16, 2008   

In Chiefs' QB pecking order, youth is served

For all the hype that Chiefs QB Tyler Thigpen has received in the preseason, you’d think he was the next big thing at quarterback. But the way we hear it, Thigpen did not necessarily earn the backup job as much as he was forced into it by the club’s brass. Not convinced that Brodie Croyle is their quarterback of the future, Kansas City’s coaching staff has made it a point to develop another player at the position, and Thigpen just happened to be the young QB it had on the roster. His performance in training camp has not been anything spectacular, but, since he’s been running the second-team offense while Damon Huard sits on the bench, the Chiefs are giving the appearance that Thigpen is beating out the veteran. Truth is, the team hasn’t really allowed the 35-year-old Huard a chance to earn playing time, even though he might give them the best shot to win. Instead, it has kept Huard on the sideline and has determined that Thigpen, 24, is its Plan B at the most important position, whether or not the youngster is ready to shoulder that burden.

Aug. 8, 2008   

Chiefs' LBs taking brunt of Cunningham's frustrations

By reading the daily Kansas City newspapers, it would appear that the Chiefs’ linebacking corps has been dreadful during training camp. The way we hear it, however, that’s not totally the case. We hear that defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham, who added linebackers coach to his list of duties this season, has been more overbearing than usual on the unit in order to teach them a lesson. The Chiefs believe that poor LB play cost the team some wins in 2007, and Cunningham wants to ensure that history doesn’t repeat itself. He has been hardest thus far on Napoleon Harris and Demorrio Williams, two big-money free agents brought in to stabilize the unit. Even though their performance hasn’t been awful, Cunningham has sent both players to the bench, at times, in favor of Pat Thomas, an unheralded fourth-year player who has had a good camp. Whether or not Cunningham will keep Harris and/or Williams sidelined remains to be seen, but he might not be able to if Donnie Edwards’ hamstring doesn’t improve. In short, a group the Chiefs hoped would be solid hasn’t lived up to expectations yet, but it also hasn’t been anywhere near as bad as it would seem.

July

July 30, 2008   

Despite retirement talk, Chiefs' Gonzalez likely to stick around for a while

TE Tony Gonzalez said this week that he is 95 percent sure he’ll return to play in 2009, but he would not commit beyond that time frame. Could the potential Hall of Famer have only two seasons left? Not likely, from what we hear. The 32-year-old Gonzalez has at least a couple of reasons to keep playing. For one, he just redid his contract before the ’07 season, and he’s due quite a bit of money from now through 2011. If he decides to retire, Gonzalez will be giving up a lot of cash, something he doesn’t appear very anxious to do. In addition, the veteran, knowing he’s moved into the latter stages of his career, has recently learned the value of mentoring the Chiefs’ younger players. He is trying to spend more time with them during training camp, especially with rookie TE Brad Cottam, who could be Gonzalez’s replacement in a few years. Finally, Gonzalez has not won a playoff game in his 11 seasons in Kansas City, and it’s something he’d really like to do before hanging up his cleats. Given the current state of the Chiefs’ roster, however, he may need to stick around for a while to accomplish that.

July 16, 2008   

Chiefs, rookies not on same page

Brandon Flowers

Updated 1:20 p.m. ET, Wednesday, July 16

The Chiefs have a history of playing hardball in contract negotiations, and that’s been the case again entering this season. GM Carl Peterson has reached agreements with just five of the team’s 12 draft picks, none of whom was taken in the first three rounds. For a club expecting quite a bit from its rookies this year, that’s a surprisingly low percentage of early signings. And from what we hear, Kansas City is still not close to signing their two Round One choices, DT Glenn Dorsey and OL Branden Albert, both of whom may be waiting for more of their fellow first-rounders to ink deals. An even greater concern, however, is that the Chiefs haven’t been able to nail down contracts with their second- and third-round picks, whom they’ll need to contribute immediately. Second-round selection CB Brandon Flowers is slated to be a starter, and third-rounders RB Jamaal Charles and TE Brad Cottam are also likely to play heavy roles. Things have gotten ugly in K.C. over contracts before — see Jared Allen — and the team obviously wants to avoid such distractions going into a critical year in their rebuilding process.

July 3, 2008   

Chiefs look to fill pass-rushing vacancy left by Allen

The Chiefs weren't good in many areas last season, but one category in which they excelled was sacks per pass play. Their defense ranked third in the league in that stat, trailing only Super Bowl participants New England and the Giants. Finishing that high again isn't likely, however, after the team traded away 2007 NFL sack leader Jared Allen, whose departure leaves K.C. with a gaping hole in its pass rush. The Chiefs added a huge force in DT Glenn Dorsey, but he alone can only do so much damage. DRE Tamba Hali has proven very capable of getting to the QB and should anchor one side of the line, but the other side is seriously lacking a sack specialist, with Alfonso Boone slated to start there after having moved from tackle. The way we hear it, though, Kansas City really likes what it has seen in seventh-round pick Brian Johnston. The defensive end has already drawn comparisons to Allen, and a good training camp could mean immediate playing time for the rookie. The team is also banking on second-year D-line hybrid Turk McBride to take a big leap forward and contribute. Finally, look for the Chiefs to incorporate more blitzing linebackers into their game plan, especially with the active Derrick Johnson.

June

June 25, 2008   

Race for Chiefs' No. 2 WR job wide open

The Chiefs’ lack of receiver depth behind Dwayne Bowe leaves the team with quite a dilemma at its No. 2 WR spot. Kansas City signed free agent Devard Darling in the offseason, but he brings just 20 career catches with him from Baltimore. Considered the front-runner not too long ago, Darling may now be third in the pecking order for the job, the way we hear it. Fourth-round rookie Will Franklin looked very good this spring, running sharp routes and separating from his defender. He quickly has vaulted into the conversation for the starting gig, with the No. 3 slot looking like the worst-case scenario. If Franklin doesn’t capture the No. 2 spot, third-year wideout Jeff Webb likely would be the guy. He showed some flashes last season, even starting two games, and he’s the only one of the trio to have experience playing with QB Brodie Croyle. Webb’s game still needs work, but he currently has a loose grip on the open job. Regardless of who’s victorious in this battle, the Chiefs will need their second receiver to be productive at least moderately, or else Bowe can expect to face a whole lot of double coverage.

June 13, 2008   

Chiefs' run defense banking on Boone

The Chiefs are aware that it’s highly unlikely they’ll be able generate the same type of pass rush after trading away NFL sack leader Jared Allen to the Vikings. With converted DT Alfonso Boone shifting outside, the pass-rushing drop-off should be precipitous. Boone is taking over DE responsibilities on the left side, with Tamba Hali flipping over to the right side to take over Allen’s vacated DRE spot. There is a silver lining, however. Hovering around 300 pounds, Boone should be a significant upgrade over Allen in run defense. Overlooked because of his dominance as an edge rusher was the reality that Allen often got overpowered by drive-blocking offensive tackles, a reality that was partially responsible for the Chiefs’ lowly ranking of 28th against the run a season ago. Another player who figures prominently in the mix is rookie Brian Johnston who, like Allen, was a small-college standout. According to a team insider, Johnston will spell Boone in the nickel package but will be able to assume more every-down assignments if he proves capable of holding his own against the run. The Chiefs’ undersized LB corps makes it even more incumbent upon the ends to be more than merely pass rushers.

May

May 30, 2008   

In spite of obstacles, Chiefs' Johnson at ease and pain-free

Larry Johnson

It would seem as though being the undisputed focal point of an offense that has instability at quarterback, a patchwork offensive line and a new, smashmouth-favoring coordinator would equate to a daunting burden for any running back. Add the fact that he’s coming off a season in which a broken bone in his right foot caused him to be a spectator for the team’s disastrous second half, and it would only seem to intensify the pressure. But sources in Kansas City insist that Larry Johnson appears completely comfortable in his role. Fully healed, he’s embracing the opportunity to run pain-free, something that he took for granted before the pitfalls of ’07. Moreover, the low expectations those around the league — and in Kansas City — have for the Chiefs enable him to focus on the task at hand without wondering about outside perception. Actively helping out the rookie class’ assimilation into the offense, Johnson looks like he’s finally transitioning from mercurial talent to team leader.

May 23, 2008   

Due to shoddy surrounding cast, Croyle's job not in danger

The Chiefs boast what’s probably the NFL’s worst offensive line, they don’t have a single reliable wideout outside of Dwayne Bowe and they’re breaking in a new (though experienced) offensive coordinator in Chan Gailey. The way we hear it, this could wind up boding particularly well for QB Brodie Croyle. Croyle’s shoddy play in ’07 has many believing that the former Alabama star isn’t equipped to be a proficient triggerman in the NFL and that he needs to show quality stuff quickly to salvage his starting job. Yet, the downtrodden state of the offense could serve as a mitigating circumstance should Croyle continue to falter. With no viable long-term QB prospect behind him on the depth chart, word we’re hearing is that Kansas City will afford Croyle time to grow in the offense and is bound to give him his share of mulligans should he need to take them.

May 16, 2008   

Chiefs dismayed with downtrodden placekicking outlook

With a dearth of offensive talent that should make it difficult for the Chiefs to consistently find the endzone in 2008, it could be essential that they kick enough field goals to stay competitive. The only problem is that their placekicking prospects are even more dismal than their offensive outlook. Ex-Cowboy Billy Cundiff, journeyman Nick Novak and undrafted rookie Connor Barth are the three options currently under contract, but none is a solid bet to be on the roster Week One. Yet finding a decent option still on the free-agent market is tough to do. Former Colts star Mike Vanderjagt is available and was granted a workout a couple months ago, but the amount of time that has lapsed since his audition without an offer being made is evidence that the team has obvious reservations about him. Regardless of which kickers are dotting the roster come training camp, expect an intense battle to be waged, and — barring any dramatic turn of events — a lot of missed field goals in the tricky Arrowhead Stadium conditions.

May 9, 2008   

Chiefs' offensive line in state of fluidity

The Chiefs have only a vague idea about what their offensive line will look like come September. That’s the word we’re hearing out of Kansas City, where the Chiefs don’t have a single lineman they’re comfortable trotting out and feeling confident that he can hold his own. The only two positions that are even relatively safe are on the left side, where OG Brian Waters and OT Damion McIntosh take up residence. But even those spots aren’t guaranteed, as rookie Branden Albert — the 15th overall selection in the draft — could conceivably take either one of those jobs and bump the incumbent to the other side. Regardless of what the Week One lineup is, expect a lot of personnel shake-ups on the line throughout the season. The Chiefs are in full experimental mode and are willing to sacrifice short-term stability for long-term potential.

April

April 25, 2008   

By trading Allen, Peterson sends ominous message to rest of the roster

Updated as of 8:00 a.m. EDT Monday, April 28

While the Chiefs may very well be pleased with their recent draft, a source close to the team wonders if their strong-arming of DE Jared Allen, who was traded to Minnesota following stalled negotiations on a long-term deal, is going to do irreparable damage to the relationship between management and the players. “If I’m a good, young player on this team, I’d have serious doubts as to whether I’ll be tossed aside in a couple years after seeing how they treated Jared,” the source said. “His (two) DUIs probably hurt his cause, but other than that, he was exactly the type of player and person you’d want as a cornerstone of your team.” The source also pointed to the lengthy, and often testy, holdout of star RB Larry Johnson last offseason as further evidence that team president Carl Peterson’s rigidity in contract negotiations is chipping away at team morale.

April 18, 2008   

Chiefs' D-line undergoing renovation

The Chiefs are going to be trotting out a fresh, young look on the defensive line next season. Disgruntled star DE Jared Allen is in talks with the Vikings ("Vikings may be close to trading for Chiefs DE Allen") and possibly the Buccaneers about a possible trade, and a deal could be struck sometime before the draft. Even leaving Allen aside, the line will look different. Word we’re hearing is that the Chiefs are itching to get two of their more coveted draftees from a season ago — DT Tank Tyler and DE Turk McBride — more involved in the game plan. Both made tepid contributions a season ago as they were getting acclimated to defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham’s system, but they are primed for big ’08 campaigns. Tyler is a good bet to be a starter, or at least heavily involved in the DT rotation, while McBride has the versatility to play outside and inside. If Allen is shipped out, McBride could take over the vacant DE job, but he should also get numerous reps as a pass-rushing tackle in nickel sets.

April 4, 2008   

If Long gone, expect the Chiefs to trade down

It’s no secret that the Chiefs need a stellar draft class to have a fighter’s chance of making a playoff run in 2008. Coach Herm Edwards’ recent assertion that he hopes between 50-75 percent of his draftees earn starting roles only highlights that need. So, in a somewhat perverse line of logic, expect the Chiefs to treat quantity over quality in the draft. Michigan OT Jake Long is believed to be the top target on the Chiefs’ board, but assuming he’s gone, Kansas City will work the phones to try to move down. But not too far. “I think they’ll want to go about 5-to-7 spots down,” a source close to the team told PFW. “That way, they still should be able to take (Boise State OT) Ryan Clady or (Pittsburgh OT) Jeff Otah to help their line.” Also, don’t expect any veterans to come the Chiefs’ way via trade for draft picks. K.C. is firmly committed to making long-term progress, and wants to add extra picks rather than aging veterans.

March

March 28, 2008   

Edwards subtly wags finger at Rams, Bucs

Maybe the Chiefs’ inability to make a splash during free agency is more a result of other clubs’ indiscretions rather than their own lack of aggressiveness. At a news conference earlier this week, coach Herm Edwards implied that the reason Kansas City was unable to lure C Jeff Faine or PK Josh Brown — two players it coveted — for even a visit was because the Buccaneers and the Rams had them locked up before the official Feb. 29 start to free agency. NFL rules prohibit teams from talking to agents before the start of the free-agent signing period, though the practice is believed to be widespread throughout the league. Earlier this week, commissioner Roger Goodell made the unprecedented move of punishing the 49ers for their allegedly premature contact with Bears OLB Lance Briggs. “There were probably some deals done before (free agency began),” Edwards said, according to the Kansas City Star. “We didn’t cheat. We abided by the rules. That’s how you’re supposed to do it.”

March 21, 2008   

QB Ryan only on periphery of Chiefs' radar screen

Don’t read too much into the fact that Herm Edwards was the only head coach on hand to watch QB Matt Ryan at Boston College’s pro day on Tuesday. Ryan remains a long shot to be the Chiefs’ selection as the fifth pick in the draft. For starters, there’s little chance Ryan slips by the Falcons at No. 3. But more than that, Edwards plans on being present at a number of pro days around the country, unlike many NFL head coaches. After making few moves in free agency, Edwards strongly believes in taking a proactive approach to the draft. Offensive line remains the Chiefs' most pressing area of concern, and Edwards was also on hand in Chestnut Hill, Mass., to take a look at Boston College OT Gosder Cherilus. Cherilus isn’t top-five material, but would represent good value if he fell to Kansas City early in the second round.

March 14, 2008   

Unknown to many, Darling in line to make significant impact in Kansas City

You know it’s been a quiet offseason in Kansas City when the Chiefs sign a receiver with 20 career catches in four seasons and it’s considered a noteworthy addition. Or, perhaps it’s also indicative of just how starved the team is for pass catchers. Regardless, the Chiefs’ addition of WR Devard Darling is a quality addition to a club that has faith only in second-year pro Dwayne Bowe to be a consistent contributor among the existing wideouts. Of Darling’s 20 receptions, 18 came in 2007, three of which went for touchdowns. With good size (6-1, 215) and speed, he’ll have every opportunity to earn a starting job in training job. It appeared for a while that the Chiefs would be targeting a receiver in the first round this April, but word now is they will be taking an offensive lineman with the fifth pick. For one thing, no receiver in this draft class grades out as a top-five talent, and new offensive coordinator Chan Gailey’s rugged, smashmouth offensive style further heightens the Chiefs’ already pressing need to get tougher in the trenches.

March 7, 2008   

Chiefs' meager free-agent crop raises red flags

The Chiefs have been very quiet on the free-agent front, with OLB Demorrio Williams representing the only significant addition to a club that needs substantial upgrades at numerous positions. Both coach Herm Edwards and GM Carl Peterson have stated that their intention is to focus on building through the draft rather than free agency, a notion which makes sense considering their pressing need to get younger. However, with the sparse crop of new faces arriving in Kansas City since season’s end, there’s not much of a realistic chance of the Chiefs getting enough out of the draft to obtain eight new starters in their offseason haul, which Edwards stated he was looking for when addressing the media at the Combine. According to one team insider, part of the problem is that veterans simply don’t find Kansas City an attractive place to play, despite Edwards’ reputation as a players’ coach. Two of the few free agents the Chiefs did covet help illuminate that point. Not only did C Jeff Faine and PK Josh Brown decline to sign with them, but opted against even paying Kansas City a visit.

February

Feb. 27, 2008   

QB not a pressing concern in Kansas City

Brodie Croyle hardly inspired the type of confidence with his play in 2007 to make the Chiefs believe that he’s obviously the long-term answer under center. On the other hand, it appears that it will be his position to lose heading into training camp. “Brodie played a lot for us this year, and we like him,” coach Herm Edwards said this week in Indianapolis. “At all positions on the team, you want to create competition … but you never want to put that pressure on a quarterback when he’s a young guy. You have to have a running game, you better be able to play good defense and have a good kicker, too, so it doesn’t fall on the quarterback. It starts with the offensive line. You have to be able to protect the guy.” We hear it’s unlikely the Chiefs will be spending a draft choice on a quarterback — at least in the early rounds — but that a veteran could be added to the mix in free agency.

Feb. 24, 2008   

Chiefs looking for eight starters this offseason

When Chiefs coach Herm Edwards addressed the media in Indy, he was surprisingly specific about what the team is looking for the offseason. “We’re probably looking for eight new starters,” Edwards said. Not that all eight players will be coming from the draft. Edwards specifically stated that both the draft and free agency will produce their share of future Chiefs, but that with the Chiefs’ emphasis on getting younger, only those free agents whose best football is ahead of them will be targeted. Edwards also said that he’ll take all that transpired over the Combine week with a grain of salt. “They run around, they jump, they touch the ground, they flip, they do all the cartwheels, but at the end, to me, the beauty pageant is how they play football,” Edwards said. “And you have to get back to the (game) tape.”

Feb. 15, 2008   

Chiefs' O-line to have fresh look in 2008

Updated at 7:30 p.m. EST Friday, Feb. 22

If the offensive line is the heartbeat of an offense, it’s no wonder the Chiefs were so anemic on that side of the ball in 2007. Only the 49ers averaged fewer than the Chiefs’ 276.8 yards per game, as a rapidly aging and battered line provided only tepid protection and push in the passing and running games. True to his word that the unit would have a fresh look in 2008, GM Carl Peterson went to work quickly. In December, eight-year veteran Chris Terry was cut, and earlier this week K.C. claimed OT Anthony Alabi off waivers from Miami. In training camp with the Fins in ’07, Alabi was a leading candidate to start before knee problems relegated him to reserve duty. With O-linemen John Welbourn and Casey Wiegmann also showing signs of age and unlikely to stick around, serious fortifications will be sought through the draft. But by doing so, Peterson will be breaking from his pre-existing mold. Not since 1999 (OT John Tait, 14th overall) have the Chiefs selected an O-lineman with a first-, second- or third-round pick. Entering his 20th season with the club, Peterson has presided over each of the OL-deprived classes. Also, some moderately priced free agents could be targeted.

Feb. 1, 2008   

After a 'tough' 2007, Johnson reports he's on the comeback trail

At the Super Bowl media center, PFW ran into star RB Larry Johnson, who is pleased to report he is recovering well from the cracked bone in his right foot that cost him the second half of the 2007 season. He likes the freedom of being able to finally walk without a protective boot and is finally able to rise up on his toes, something he wasn’t able to do toward the end of the season, when he tried in vain to return to the lineup. He plans to start a running and weightlifting regimen as soon as he gets the OK from his doctor in March, and he’ll be anxious to put behind him a difficult season that saw him struggle before the injury and the Chiefs close out the year on a nine-game losing streak without his services. “It was real tough because I’d been hurt, but I’d never missed games in my career," Johnson told PFW. This is the first time I missed a large amount of games since I’ve been playing football, and it did hurt because I saw them out there really struggling and trying to find themselves. And not having me out there able to help really frustrated me because I always felt like I wanted to give my teammates something more with all they were going through.”