Kansas City Chiefs: Replacing Derrick Johnson Should Come From Within

Ramik Wilson

When it comes to replacing Derrick Johnson, the Kansas City Chiefs may need to take the simplest route. That would be moving Ramik Wilson into the every down position previously held by Johnson. This would be the move that required the least amount of adjustment because Wilson has already assumed some of Johnson’s responsibilities when the veteran was limited earlier this season.

I have long argued that the future of the Chiefs inside linebacker corps is Ramik Wilson and Justin March. With that paring, I believe that it is Wilson who will eventually replace Derrick Johnson. With his athleticism and sure-tackling, Wilson seems to me as the best option to take over that role.

This move would have an added benefit. The Chiefs could move one of the other options I have mentioned to the “thumper” role that Wilson has been playing. That position requires less understanding of the defense and has fewer responsibilities. It also means that the player would be on the field far less of the time, opening them up for other responsibilities (like Special Teams).