On Wednesday’s mailbag edition of the Arrowhead Pride Out of Structure podcast, Matt Stagner and I received a question regarding Kansas City Chiefs’ training camp: if we could only choose one position competition to watch, which one would we pick?
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There’s always a plethora of things to watch, but big offseason moves make this question even harder this year. Here’s how we answered it:
Matt: Right guard
I could make a case for a number of positions here, including linebacker, cornerback, wide receiver and even tight end. But all eyes are on — and should be on — the offensive line. Given that the left side and center are set, there are a number of ways in which the right side could end up.
Entering camp, I think the right guard spot is Laurent Duvernay-Tardif’s to lose. But the fact that rookie Trey Smith drew as much praise and buzz as he did — without even hitting anyone yet — says that he’s got the mental side of the game ahead of schedule. Once he’s able to combine that with what he does best, he’s got a real shot at being a factor in the battle at right guard.
There’s a similar situation is at right tackle, where the Chiefs are likely to give Mike Remmers the first chance to start. But before camp is over, still-rookie Lucas Niang might have something to say about it.
Ron: Linebacker
To me, this is the position that has become more and more exciting to watch. I want to see how Willie Gay Jr. and Nick Bolton do in training camp — being tested in a practice setting against quarterback Patrick Mahomes. To get on the field, they’re going to have to show their ability in coverage.
As fans at practice, I believe we’ll be able to see how well they do. You’ll see if a running play easily gets through a gap or if there’s an open receiver over the middle of the field — or if you see a coach barking at one of them after a big offensive play to their area.
With former Chiefs linebacker Damien Wilson gone, it’s also an opportunity for one of the young linebackers to earn the SAM position. Ideally, Bolton steps up into that role right away — but camp gives him the chance to earn it.
Poll
Which position battle would you pick?
This poll is closed
-
44%
Offensive line
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31%
Linebacker
-
7%
Cornerback
-
15%
Wide receiver
-
1%
Tight end
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