Kansas City Chiefs: 53-man roster predictions following first preseason game
Safety
Keep: Eric Berry, Daniel Sorensen, Eric Murray, Armani Watts, Robert Golden
Cut: Leon McQuay, Jordan Sterns, Otha Peters
Eric Berry returning to the defense in 2018 is the most significant addition in 2018. The defense collapsed without the playstyle and leadership from the star safety. He can play any level of the defense and is exceptional no matter where he lines up.
The starting spot next to Berry this season was likely Daniel Sorensen after the Chiefs elected to move on from Ron Parker this offseason. Unfortunately, Sorensen suffered an injury during training camp that will keep him out of the start of the regular season. How long he will be out could be a big question mark.
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Eric Murray is the likely starter to take over for Sorensen as he’s the more experienced player over rookie safety Armani Watts. Murray is still making the transition from slot cornerback to safety, and I’m hoping he steps up for the defense in 2018. Like the rest of the safety group, Murray was asked to take on more roles in the defense last year in the absence of Berry leaving him exposed on multiple levels.
Watts got the most playing time on defense against the Texans but doesn’t look like he is ready to start. He will be the backup to Berry at strong safety where he is a better fit. Cleaning up college mistakes and techniques will be essential for Watts to get more playing time early in the season.
Kansas City wanted to bring Watts along slowly but could be forced to push him onto the field sooner than expected with the injury to Sorensen. He will likely play in the third safety role when the Chiefs are in dime packages.
Robert Golden is not a player I see taking time away from anyone on defense. He is a veteran that will spend his time on special teams in 2018 for the Chiefs. His special teams contributions are why I have him making the jump over 2017 sixth-round pick Leon McQuay. While McQuay showed a couple of flashes during the Week 17 matchup, his inability to stay healthy is hurting his chances of making the squad.
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The final two roster spots will go to kicker Harrison Butker, punter Dustin Colquitt, and long snapper James Winchester.