While speaking with Joel this afternoon about his time thus far at the Chiefs training camp, we discussed several points of interest and business when it comes to Arrowhead Pride, SB Nation and other things. But one question I just had to ask as a fan: Joel, what are you hearing from the longtime media guys who've been there? How does this year's training camp compare to the last several years in the early going?
His response was perfect. Of course, I suspect similar things are said every season. He said, in so many words, that the Chiefs have their act together. That's the consensus. The coaches are settled, the players know what's expected and things are moving as they should. That's good news. And that's what we all hope for.
I've written around here before that I don't want to get caught up in the hype. We're not a good team (at least until we win some actual games on the field). As of now, we're still a four-win team. And that's better than the previous season. Thus, it's a bit unrealistic to think we'll make some sports movie jump from last to first. Yet when I had a chance to ask a guy who's been front and center in the early going, I couldn't help myself.
That's the beauty of this time of year. The slate is clean. Last season is history. Anything is possible. Hope is renewed. Every hire becomes the master stroke. Every signing is the missing link. Every draft pick is a sleeper and the top pick is a future Hall of Famer. I can write all I want about trying to keep a level head, but let's be honest -- that's just about having a point of pride to look back and say I was right in case things go wrong. But in the end, I can't help it.
More after the jump...
The reason is that I'm a fan, first and foremost. As long as I tried to say, 'Don't forget about last year,' the reality is that forgetting about last year is the best part of the year for a losing squad and its fan base. And when I knew Joel had to get off the phone to get to the next practice, I just had to ask one more question to appease the kid inside still hoping for that miraculous turnaround from this year's team.So I guess I really hope I am wrong about holding my hopes in check. I hope the Chiefs continue to look good on the other side of training camp and that the wins begin to flow like milk and honey. Then again, if not, I'll just say, 'I told you so.'