Kansas City Chiefs: Youth Movement with defense

Kansas City Chiefs: Defensive Line Breakdown

Many argue that the defensive line needs plenty of work, and I am not one to disagree with this. However, the addition of Xavier Williams, loosens the tension of the defensive line need come draft day.

Left Defensive End

To start things off, I will work left to right on the 3-4 defensive line. Starting on the left defensive end is Mr. Energry in Chris Jones. A second-round steal in the 2016 NFL Draft, Jones gives the Chiefs plenty of production, as he works his tail off nearly every play. The 23-year old has plenty of room to grow, and looks to bounce back this season coming off of a knee injury.

Behind Jones on the depth chart is the 24-year old Rakeem Nunez-Roches, and 26-year old Mike Purcell. Nunez-Roches will likely see playing time this season, as Purcell’s time will be limited, if he makes the 53-man roster.

Nose Tackle

Coming in on the number one spot in the nose tackle depth chart is the newest addition to the line, in Xavier Williams. Williams signed his contract with the Kansas City Chiefs in March, after spending two seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. Williams is a 26-year old product with plenty of upside.

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Backing up Williams is 24-year old Justin Hamilton, 29-year old Stefan Charles, and 23-year old Josh Augusta. Hamilton is most likely to see the most playing time out of the names listed above.

Right Defensive End

On the right side of the football, lies the 29-year old Allen Bailey,29-year old Jarvis Jenkins, and 25-year old T.Y. McGill. As expected, Bailey is the projected starter, but still, Jenkins, and McGill may see the field from time-to-time throughout this season.

The right side of the football on the line of scrimmage is up for grabs. This is a position that is needing an upgrade or even assistance. Sure, Bailey and Jenkins are capable bodes, but there has to be better options out there for future’s sake. Look for Veach to make a move in the draft, or a trade to upgrade this particular position.

Depth Chart Breakdown – Defensive Line: 

• Chris Jones, 23-years old
• Rakeem Nunez Roches, 24-years old
• Mike Purcell, 26-years old
• Xavier Williams, 24-years old
• Justin Hamilton, 26-years old
• Stefan Charles, 29-years old
• Josh Augusta, 23-years old
• Allen Bailey, 29-years old
• Jarvis Jenkins, 29-years old
• T.Y. McGill, 25-years old
  • Average DL Age: 26-years old