It wasn't long ago that 99% of NFL power rankings had the Chiefs consistently ranked between 29-31. As we've said before, 10 wins in three years will do that to a team.
However, this offseason it seems the rest of the national media is taking notice of the Chiefs efforts to improve the roster.
Take this pre-training camp power rankings list from Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald. Where does he have the Chiefs? Check it out:
20. Kansas City: New England Midwest got significantly stronger in the defensive backfield this offseason with the drafting of Eric Berry and Javier Arenas, who will be a fine nickel player. The rest of the defense, putrid against the run last year, is still a work-in-progress. The offense should be better with the addition of running back Thomas Jones and center Casey Wiegmann. Both are in the twilight of their careers, but serve as upgrades for this team nonetheless. It'll be interesting to see what new OC Charlie Weis can do for QB Matt Cassel.
Quite a leap from 29-31, huh?
Folks were generally impressed with the Chiefs moves last offseason but not impressed enough to move them out of the cellar in most of these power rankings. It seems that the additions of Weis and Crennel are worth about 10 spots in these rankings.
If we're to believe Mr. Salguero's rankings, then this would put the Chiefs at second place in the AFC West with Denver (21) and Oakland (27) not far behind.