KC Chiefs: Five rookies who can heavily contribute in 2019

KANSAS CITY, MO - JANUARY 20: A view of the Kansas City Chiefs logo at midfield before the AFC Championship Game game between the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs on January 20, 2019 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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Defensive lineman Khalen Saunders of Western Illinois (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

ROOKIES WHO CAN CONTRIBUTE IN 2019

NUMBER 4 – KHALEN SAUNDERS

The Chiefs took Khalen Saunders out of Western Illinois in the third round of this year’s draft to help beef up their defense. While Saunders might not be a starter, at least not at the beginning of the year, he should be a nice player who can rotate in on third downs and really add a punch to this rebuilding defense.

More. Best and Worst Case Scenario for Khalen Saunders. light

Saunders will likely be the backup to second-year man Derrick Nnadi, who had a nice rookie year in 2018. Saunders will be given plenty of opportunities to see the field due to his size and the fact that he makes plays.

The Western Illinois product accounted for 14 sacks over two years in college and the Chiefs need that kind of production on defense, especially with an overhaul of their pass rushers this offseason.

While Saunders probably doesn’t end up in a starting role, sans injuries of course, he’ll be on the field making a difference. That’s the hope at least.

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