Kansas City Chiefs: Mid Season Gradecards

Linebackers: C-

Another surprising poor grade for what has been known as a powerful group. The linebacker core is struggling right along with the rest of the defense. With names like Justin Houston, Derrick Johnson and Dee Ford, expectations were high for this group.

Houston does have seven and a half sacks on the season so far, but he’s only wrapped up 37 combined tackles. Derrick Johnson has 44 total tackles but it’s uncomfortably noticeable that he’s aging. Dee Ford has not been able to muster any consistent play opposite Houston, battling the injury bug off and on. Ford sits at 13 tackles and two sacks.

There is a chance that Tamba Hali changes the direction this group is heading, his age is concerning as well as far as dependency. Role players have been just that, no Hollywood stories this season. Frank Zombo, Reggie Ragland and Ramik Wilson have all helped try to right the ship.

Reggie Ragland played well against their last opponent, the Dallas Cowboys. Wilson has played well at times too, competing hard for that middle linebacker spot. Frank Zombo is good for a few outstanding plays each season but the in-between is large.

Similarity and the pure talent of Justin Houston keeps this grade above a D so far.