KC Chiefs: Five Most Underrated Chiefs For 2015
By Alec Tilson
Washington Huskies defensive back Marcus Peters (21) – Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Lastly, the rookie, because rookies go last…
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It’s difficult to underrate the first-round pick on any NFL roster. Fan expectations are sky-high and the imminent growing pains can end in a disappointing year in the eyes of spectators.
However, this season might be different.
Marcus Peters is a Top 5 football talent on the Chiefs defense the first time he steps on the field. He’s not the oldest or the smartest or the best yet, but his raw, God-given football ability is off the charts.
He plays at a different speed – he plays fast and with abandon. He’s physical in press coverage, he showed ball-hawking instincts at the University of Washington and he comes down the line beautifully on a blitz. There’s an energy about his game that is unique.
When the Chiefs picked him, I had hardly heard of him, but as I see more of his tape, it’s apparent that he was under-drafted:
(Source of link: YouTube.com)
That’s as impressive a highlight reel as you will find from a college player. No seriously, you should watch it. Couple that with his fiery nature, and the Chiefs found themselves an impact defensive player from Day One.
The first Chief that comes to mind when projecting Peters is Brandon Flowers. Both are physical, hard-nosed corners who compete at an NFL level from the start. It’s a rare trait to have at that age.
He’s going to miss an assignment and look like a rookie. But, Peters is going to make other plays on Sunday that make you shake your head in glorious silence.
Flowers posted 69 tackles, two interceptions and 13 passes defensed in his rookie season. Seeing as Peters will join a better defense than Flowers did, there’s reason to think he could outperform those numbers. I don’t think Peters can tackle like Flowers (few cornerbacks can), but he’s three inches taller which is ideal NFL size.
The growing pains will come. Peyton will teach him NFL Football 101. Antonio Gates will eat his lunch. He’s going to miss an assignment and look like a rookie. But, Peters is going to make other plays on Sunday that make you shake your head in glorious silence.
The Chiefs added a nice piece in Marcus Peters and he has the ability to outperform the expectations he will face.
Next: Conclusion