Kansas City Chiefs: Five Players Who Need To Step-Up In 2014

November 17, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs guard Jeff Allen (71) blocks during the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Chiefs 27-17. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

JEFF ALLEN, Offensive Lineman

Jeff Allen has been average at best for the Chiefs while anchoring the left guard spot in 2013. Allen was the Chiefs 44th overall pick in 2012 and at times, he seems to get blown off the ball, or as I like to say, he plays like he’s got roller skates on. His size and above average technique help him to recover quick enough when he does get beat, thus keeping his sack and penalty numbers low but the Chiefs offense needs more consistency from the interior of their offensive line in 2014.

To me, it looks like Allen needs to lose a little weight, that way he has the ability to use his athleticism more, much like Geoff Shcwartz was able to do last season.

The Chiefs still had one of the better scoring offense’s in the NFL last season (believe it or not) despite having inconsistent play from their offensive line. Now, imagine if these young guys take that next step and ultimately become one of the best front fives in the league? With Alex Smith, Jamaal Charles, and Knile Davis in your backfield that could be very scary.

I look for Jeff Allen to take that next step in 2014. If not, we could be looking for a new left guard the next year as well.