Kansas City Chiefs: 4 Players To Watch Tonight

Jul 26, 2014; St. Joseph, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Phillip Gaines (23) defends against wide receiver Kyle Williams (19) during training camp at Missouri Western State University. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Phillip Gaines was one of those draft picks that got the Chiefs Kingdom fired up. KC is thin at defensive back, so the selection of the corner with the most pass deflections in college football last season was music to our ears.

His 6-foot-1 frame is the prototypical size that John Dorsey is looking for and his highlights were enough to get some Chiefs fans drooling. While he did struggle early on in during rookie mini-camp and OTA’s, Gaines seems to be making big strides since the start of training camp.

"“Phillip has really good speed,” defensive coordinator Bob Sutton said. “His is going to be a lot of technique things that has to keep developing, no different than any of the other corners, but I think he’s showing some signs out there.”"

Gaines will be taking his reps with the third team defense as the left side corner back. It will be nice to finally see his speed (4.38 forty yard dash) shine not only on defense, but special teams as well.

Like Sorensen, Gaines biggest impact might be made on special teams this season. That’s not to say he couldn’t make an impact on defense, but with speed like his, and his physical nature, special teams will be his chance to really show the coaches what he’s made of.

Gaines has been a prospect to keep our eyes on since day one, which is why he will be on my watch list for tonight.