Player development and Talent acquistion

by stagdsp on Nov 25, 2009 3:02 PM CST

You know what could be the best thing to come out of 2009, other than the Steelers win?...

Getting some young talent developed that can contribute going forward.

Belcher, Studebaker, O'Callaghan, Charles, Long, Mays, Morgan... These guys ALL have a chance to be Big contributors to the team in 2010 and beyond.

Not to mention Cassel, Dorsey, Jackson, who have higher expectations and are getting valuable experience!

Even if the Chiefs don't win another game, this has been an important year for talent development and acquisition.

I'm also glad to see Chambers and Wade along with Vrabel and Edwards playing well... though, obviously, their window of contribution is shorter.

The question is.. who will be the next no-name (or under performing) guy that the Chiefs can develop into a player for the future?

Possible Candidates:

* Leonard Pope: Showed some signs of life against Pitt... if he keeps that up, he could be a starter at TE

* Tim Castille: I liked the option play with Charles... Castille is a versatile guy that has a chance to stick

* Brad Cottam: Another huge TE that hasn't done ANYTHING so far... but he could be waiting for his chance

* Tyson Jackson/ Alex Magee: Obviously, the Chiefs like both of these guys, and 3-4DEs take a while to develop... but Jackson has shown flashes, as has Magee... will they both evolve before our eyse by the end of the season?

* Donald Washington: Obviously, he has the athleticism, but can he figure out how to play?

* Derrick Johnson: Yes, I know... he's faced a rocky road this year. But, he has the talent, just needs to be coached up, and given the opportunity... THEN he has to take advantage of that opportunity. Can he do enough this year to justify a new contract?

* OR will it be a new waiver-wire/ FA pickup?

* OR will it be the handfull of guys on the PS/IR that are poised to make the jump to the starting lineup next season? Javarris Williams, Quinten Lawrence, Colin Brown, Jake O'Connell are draft picks waiting in the hopper for 2010. Favorite, the old LSU NT is another possible gem sitting on the practice squad...

This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of Arrowhead Pride's writers or editors. It does reflect the views of this particular fan though, which is as important as the views of Arrowhead Pride writers or editors.

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Comments

I don't think DJ will get a new contract.

Likely some trade bait there…perhaps we could pull it like the Cassel/Vrabel pickup and trade DJ for some unrealistically high draft pick (like a 2nd Rder)…hmm…

I think Tyson and Magee have upside—particularly impressed with the early returns on Magee. He’s pretty scrappy and a fighter. I think both could be playmakers.

Cottam is a waste of everyones time at this point, and I was a supporter.

I agree, its been a good season to see what we have and moving forward I think a lot of these young guys can be a cornerstone. Pick up a few oliners in FA or mid rounds in the draft, bring in a flashy offensive weapon and we might be respectable very soon

by jk86 on Nov 25, 2009 3:17 PM CST reply actions

developing these guys COULD save a BUNCH of draft picks!

IF they can find some starters on the current roster or scrap heap…
that cuts down on the “holes” to be filled in the draft.

That also allows the team to draft BPA, instead of trying to reach for a position of dire need

It’d really make this a better team in the long run

* "I doubt anyone will miss Connor Barth except UCrawford"
* the LB corps may become the biggest strength of the Chiefs in 2009
* The OL is NOT as bad as you think it is... give it time, and you'll see improvement this season
* Stats are for losers

by stagdsp on Nov 25, 2009 3:24 PM CST up reply actions

DJ Trade

If the chiefs have any intention of trading DJ then they seem to be taking the wrong route.What’s the message to other teams if the HC doesn’t play him much?At this point noone would give up anything because it looks like they’re going to cut him.Play him & let the chips fall where they may.He can be outstanding & then break your heart.But no player can show much going in & out of the line-up.

John Soellner

by chiefs63 on Nov 25, 2009 4:32 PM CST up reply actions

agreed

that’s part of the reason I think (hope) that they are still pushing to make him better…
and that he’ll eventually get it and earn a new contract to stay in KC

by stagdsp on Nov 25, 2009 4:47 PM CST up reply actions

Might be tough to keep him on account of the gulf between differing opinions of his true worth.

And with regard to comments by others, I don’t think the Chiefs play or sit DJ based on any calculations as to his future trade value. Right or wrong, they allocate minutes based on what they perceive to be their best chance of winning NOW. The concensus that appears to be evolving on AP is that his failure to comprehend team play would relegate him to a situational role on a team that had its shit together @ LB, in spite of its being quite clear that he’s a starting-caliber athlete.

I concur that they are pushing to make him better. But, like Pollard, he seems to be kind of a knucklehead about why he may or may not be the apple of the coach’s eye. Haley wants the Hali’s, whose recent presence in the weight room is obvious by the pools of sweat on the floor under various pieces of training equipment, and who, when asked about his new position can and unhesitatingly will recite a laundry list of the aspects of his game that he’s working to improve. Any player who can’t or won’t list the things he’s trying to improve, or has no idea why he might not be getting all “his” minutes, is probably a player who doesn’t get it.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 12:04 AM CST up reply actions 3 recs

I see it all the time.

Students who think they get it getting blindsided by a standard test of the material. Some people are naturally self-critical and reflective. These are people who are trainable, because they take responsibility for training themselves.

Ever notice the worst drivers are the ones who think they’re great drivers?

How do you explain to a horse why he can’t read?

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 12:08 AM CST up reply actions

Wait a minute...

Horses can’t read?

Chiefs go 9-7. LJ makes 1400 yards. DBowe makes 1200 yards. Defense #18.
10/28--The Koolaid buzz is beginning to wear off. Maybe drop this back to my original thoughts on the year. Chiefs go 6-10 (and that my be optimistic!). LJ gets a restraining order to stay 1400 yards away from the Chiefs. I'll let the rest stand for now. 11/18 Oh My! Dbowe gets a restraining order to stay 1200 yards away from the Chiefs. Argh! Can we go 5-11? Can the defense make #20?

by Zodeman on Nov 27, 2009 6:29 AM CST up reply actions

Heh. Yes.

As to the main point, you can strategize to help a student/player learn how to learn (amazing how many make it to college without this skill), but those who have learning skills are a joy to teach. Those who don’t have those kinds of skills really resent the little things you ask them to do.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 27, 2009 3:05 PM CST up reply actions

DJ got alot of playing time vs Steelers

…and he showed why he’s been struggling to get that playing time. He was out of position and he often whiffed on tackles.

I’m not ready to close the book on DJ yet, but it sure doesn’t seem like he fits the mold. I think hmills is deadnut-right on his evaluation of DJ below. I think he’s so enamored with his own play, that he doesn’t realize there’s room for improvement…

He has trade value, based on his past play and his stats & measurables. I’m not sure that I agree with you on the fact that more playing increases his trade value. He sure didn’t help his stock with his play against Pitt…

"Every day is an evaluation and if you’re not out there how can we depend on you? If you’re out there and you don’t know what to do, how can we depend on you?" Accountability -- Haley-style...

by Chief_Elmo on Nov 27, 2009 2:08 PM CST up reply actions

I doubted this...and re-watched...

It is absolutely true…he missed tons of tackles and was solely responsible for the TD for Mendenhall (Recieving)

Don't forget to be an AP-vangelist...Tell A Friend...

by woodman212 on Nov 27, 2009 7:27 PM CST up reply actions

I vote Pope

I was fired up when I saw him “superman” into the endzone. He may not be Tony G., but hell nobody is gonna replace that guy. If Pope can work himself into the passing game as a threat, then he will be a good safety valve along with Long. He’s already stepping it up in the blocking dept. (per Bewsaf’s OL post), and we’ve all been screaming for a solid blocking TE. If he keeps this up, maybe we can save a draft pic for something more luxury (KR/PR)? And damn we got him for dirt cheap……..I’m really gonna be pullin for this kid.

(No mancrush)

by Hail2DaChiefs on Nov 25, 2009 3:19 PM CST reply actions 1 recs

That'd be nice

I was glad they signed him, and I’d really be glad if he’s the long term starter at TE!!!

He doesn’t have to do THAT much… just block and catch the occasional TD.

by stagdsp on Nov 25, 2009 3:21 PM CST up reply actions

no question

Pope has been solid. He’s essentially an o lineman that can catch

by reedeasy on Nov 25, 2009 3:23 PM CST up reply actions

Nice thought

I’m pulling for him too. We have other needs I’d love to see addressed if he can be effective.

by hayoli on Nov 25, 2009 9:23 PM CST up reply actions

I gotta re-check what the heck the vote was about, but generally concur about liking Pope.

Get that pick ‘n’ roll goin’ with both the ‘backs and the TE, and pass rushers won’t know whether TE’s an obstacle on the way to the ball or dangerous targets likely to get the ball.

I love the way the Giants have used Kevin Boss. Workmanlike blocker all day long, and when they need him, the guy is WIDE OPEN, and he makes the sure-handed grab. They’re not stat-building grabs, but solid, game-winning grabs. I’ll take that any day over Tony Gonzalez…

… he said as he ducked and fled for the door.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 12:22 AM CST up reply actions

I agree

Pope is just what they want out of a TE in this Offense. Boss is a great example of what you want in a TE or at least what i would want on my team. I think Dennis Pitta from BYU could be a Boss type TE. I’m also pretty sure their wouldn’t be any character issue’s.

by CPT.Caveman on Nov 28, 2009 2:22 PM CST up reply actions

all of those things

but i’m really looking for the guys on the PS this year (Williams, Lawrence, and others) to make some tangiable contributions next season…..but yes all of those things in confluence will push the Chiefs to the next level next season

by reedeasy on Nov 25, 2009 3:22 PM CST reply actions

I am definitely anticipating Colin Brown

I know nothing about him other than he’s big. I hope he pans out….

by Hail2DaChiefs on Nov 25, 2009 3:24 PM CST up reply actions

YES

I was thinking about adding that to the post… think I will…

by stagdsp on Nov 25, 2009 3:25 PM CST up reply actions

I think Colin Brown also put in some quality minutes on d-line in college.

Maybe he’s the NT we’re all dreaming about, already in-house.

WAY outside of the box, I know, especially with my initial take on his footspeed, which seems less good than I thought it would be. But he does have that monster-in-the-middle size and strength.

He is probably not the guy you want starting at tackle all season, but a guy who could come in and play virtually any spot along the line in serviceable fashion. A very very good depth pick in the 4th? 5th? round, who could easily become a fixture at G and possibly start at tackle, if he can learn to play a little less top-heavy.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 12:29 AM CST up reply actions

Very good idea

I never thought about it that way, it would be great if he can improve. I would rather see him be a 10 year RT, but would be fine with him at NT too.He played in a offense that was pass,pass,and pass,did he ever put his hand on the ground?Meaning did he ever come out of a 3 point stance.

by CPT.Caveman on Nov 28, 2009 2:27 PM CST up reply actions

Agreed.

I really like the depth the Chiefs are building. They look like they’re building a foundation for consistent success year in and out (ala the Patriots or Steelers) . We have lots of guys on our PS that are just a few hairs away from becoming contributers on the pro team).

by jk86 on Nov 25, 2009 3:24 PM CST up reply actions

and with all of Piolis guys on the personell & scouting staff this year

2010 is going to be a very good draft for us I think

by reedeasy on Nov 25, 2009 3:39 PM CST up reply actions

agreed

by stagdsp on Nov 25, 2009 3:41 PM CST up reply actions

And a good FA and UDFA I think

We will “Pioli” will know what to look for and the Value of said player
(cost vs age) X (need)
is that a math equation?

We Will kick at least 4 Teams Asses in 09. Almost there :)
And Succop will be the Key in two of them. Skins & Raiders! Pittsburgh Sweet!
" Think and talk positive football off the field." Hank Stram

by Steve_Chiefs on Nov 25, 2009 8:09 PM CST up reply actions

No. You need an equality operator in there, somewhere. What you've written is an expression.

But you implied an equation, with value on one side and cost, age, need on the other side.

But that’s why I’m leaning towards the Chiefs looking for a top-shelf OL starter in this draft. I see a lot of smart depth type moves made, but not quite enough high-end talent to ever hear the word “dominant” and “KC O-Line” in the same sentence, except for this one.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 12:33 AM CST up reply actions 2 recs

As for FA, don't expect many big splashes.

Maybe one, like with Cassel and Vrabel. I don’t expect to see a whole lot of bottom-feeder moves like the late picks for Alleman and Ndukwe, either, which are excusable in a first year, when there’s so much to accomplish and only so many FAs and draft picks with which to work. That was a unique situation in a time of relatively dire need. And the big splash-type moves are a once-a-year-at-most sort of thing.

I can’t remember now if Wilfork will be UFA or not. I think UFA, with KC in very good position to bid for his services, without having to spend any picks at all. I bring it up, because this is the most obvious big FA move Pioli might make in 2010.

As for UDFA, while a lot of that is in the eyeballs of the scouts, I don’t think Pioli has or claims to have a crystal ball before the guys are brought in during OTAs. The true test of this process is the quality of the coaching and training staff, and the quality (and pace) of the evaluations. No shame in bringing in a guy who doesn’t pan out, but failing to develop a guy who’s got it or wasting time on someone who doesn’t is a sin. That’s why I like the way Pioli talks. Don’t put any stock in what you thought of a guy last year, last month, or even last week. If he’s kickin’ ass, reward him. If he’s not gettin’ it, demote or terminate him.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 12:46 AM CST up reply actions

Pope

all the way

Welcome to Chiefs REBUILD - Version 2.0 /The Clark Hunt Edition
Chiefs will be lucky to go 4-12 in 2010

by KansasCityShuffle on Nov 25, 2009 5:05 PM CST reply actions

am i wrong in thinking that if this next year is uncapped that dj could/would be a restrictede d free agent?

by Shutters on Nov 25, 2009 5:27 PM CST reply actions

i believe you are correct

by stagdsp on Nov 25, 2009 5:30 PM CST up reply actions

Not sure if he's RFA in an uncapped year

Hope so. I think someone would sign him if we put in a 2nd round tender.

This is my signature line. It is full of awesome and win.

by KCSatchmo on Nov 25, 2009 6:21 PM CST up reply actions

Hmmmm. For goodwill among all nations,

I’m not sure I’d hold out for better than a 3rd-rounder. I think one of the reasons Peterson had trouble getting reasonable deals is because he fought so hard for every scrap that all he was left with were scraps. If I see things right, Pioli’s more likely to avoid gouging others, and less likely to be gouged in return.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 12:52 AM CST up reply actions

I think Castille will be a big part as we go forward...

I think they hope to make him a Leron McClain…

We have no power back right now, he will be it.

Don't forget to be an AP-vangelist...Tell A Friend...

by woodman212 on Nov 25, 2009 6:39 PM CST reply actions

that'd be interesting

Javarris Williams could also be the “power back” next season.

It would be nice if Castille contributed, though… again, he’s a guy that came in cheap, with little fanfare…

by stagdsp on Nov 25, 2009 6:43 PM CST up reply actions

Yea, and I was surprised by his quickness on that option...

He had to unload it quick, but he was ready.

Don't forget to be an AP-vangelist...Tell A Friend...

by woodman212 on Nov 25, 2009 6:51 PM CST up reply actions

yep... good execution is nice to see :)

by stagdsp on Nov 25, 2009 6:54 PM CST up reply actions

Ditto all the above.

Came right in and looked like he knew what he was about. The level of execution says something good about the coaching, too. The other 10 guys are well-trained and they can plug-and-play with the new guy.

Castille seemed to be a more assertive blocker than Cox. Cox has impressed me with his receiving skills, able to catch the ball in stride and turn it upfield with some quickness and authority (e.g., KC’s 1st play from scrimmage versus Pittsburgh) but he hasn’t impressed with his run or pass blocking. I think if they went to him a little more often with the screens and pick-n-roll maneuvers, it could do as much or more to blunt the pass rush than seeing him improve his blocking. But I still don’t think he’s a very good lead blocker, in particular.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 1:00 AM CST up reply actions

Nice picks. Can we add Gilberry?

Every time Wallace Gilberry is on the field, he impresses me. He’s a beast in the making.

by Pilcrow on Nov 26, 2009 8:53 AM CST reply actions 1 recs

I'm feeling a little less alone in the wilderness with comments like these.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 11:19 PM CST up reply actions

absolutely

he’s been a VERY nice surprise.

Is it just me, or are there WAY more of these kind of players emerging this year than in previous seasons?

by stagdsp on Nov 27, 2009 7:47 AM CST up reply actions

Nope, not just you...

I’ve been impressed with alot of the young guys that have made it on to the team.

"Every day is an evaluation and if you’re not out there how can we depend on you? If you’re out there and you don’t know what to do, how can we depend on you?" Accountability -- Haley-style...

by Chief_Elmo on Nov 27, 2009 2:10 PM CST up reply actions

I think so.

And fewer players with Wow! potential that we

fall in man-love with and
make excuses for on the basis of a small number of highlights

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 27, 2009 3:08 PM CST up reply actions

Nice thoughts

Defense is set with the exception of safety. We could ride with everyone we have right now so whoever we get in fa and draft will only make us that much more deep and talented. Offense is set with the exception of oline and we have a 1st rounder and pro bowler to build off of, a good start. Likewise with the offense anyone drafted or signed will just make us that much more deep and talented. Pioli is building a nice starting point. Things are looking way better now then they did a few weeks ago.

"Its going to be a challenge, its going to feel like forever, and there will be difficulties. But we will emerge on the other side of it stronger than we were when we entered." ~ Sudden

by Matt_Grbac on Nov 26, 2009 9:08 AM CST via mobile reply actions

Safety is half the equation.

We also need to put more pressure on the opposing QB. If we get that done, our safeties won’t look so horrible. Our sack total for the season has been less than spectacular, even though KC blitzes more than most teams in the league… maybe all of them. If our front 3 (or 4) develops, that problem may take care of itself. And yes, I still want to kick Peterson in his nutsack for trading Jared.

by Pilcrow on Nov 26, 2009 9:17 AM CST up reply actions

NT and continuing development of team concept up front

makes our LBs better instantly. Add at least one, preferably two DBs with great coverage skills, and our LBs are instantly better. When d-line and secondary are set, then start looking for the higher dollar/higher draft pick LB. Right now, LB is mainly about football IQ and “churning the roster,” rather than investing overmuch in any one guy before he proves himself on the field.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 11:25 PM CST up reply actions

Really all our defense is lacking is a dynamite safety and a hall of fame pass rush

rusher I should say…just one big pass rush play maker. That would change the whole thing to a top ten d…(once pendergast is gone).

Gibbs needs to go as well. They were throw aways that got fired because they are inept. And it shows.

Our offense only needs 4 good linemen one being a center that has balls of granite and we’ll be great there too.

Nexxt we need to pick up Lindell White next year to give us the one two punch combo running game as he is not getting used in Tennessee and could be a trade bait next year.

One great receiver to top it off and we’re on our way.

by krayfish on Nov 26, 2009 11:28 AM CST reply actions

I'm more of a bluecollar d-line and "system pressure"

rather than having the one guy who’s a star kind of fan. A great NT who makes life easy(ier) for everyone else would do more than anything else for the overall success of the current d-lineup.

Agree that a dynamite safety is a must, but Chiefs are more than one DB away from dictating to offenses the way Denver is, for instance.

Disagree on Lendale White. As at LB, just keep “churning the roster” at that position, the way Pioli’s doing. Let the cream rise to the top.

Agree on OL. Nothing will do more to improve QB, RB and WR play than more dominant play from the front 5.

No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.

by hmills110 on Nov 26, 2009 11:31 PM CST up reply actions

Like Pope & Brown on Offense, but...

for defense I have to say that I’m anxiously waiting to see what my Favorite NT can do. Maybe its just the name Marlon, but I can’t wait to see Dorsey, Favorite & Jackson on the DLine at the same time…

"Every day is an evaluation and if you’re not out there how can we depend on you? If you’re out there and you don’t know what to do, how can we depend on you?" Accountability -- Haley-style...

by Chief_Elmo on Nov 27, 2009 2:13 PM CST reply actions