KC Chiefs: Three x-factors on defense headed into 2020

Defensive X-Factors for KC Chiefs – Number 2: Tyrann Mathieu and Juan Thornhill

Putting two players in the place of one might seem like cheating, but the reality is that these two players make a great combination at the safety position.

The Chiefs’ safety position changed quickly after the 2018 season. The signing of Tyrann Mathieu and the release of Eric Berry made for a whirlwind of change within just a few days last offseason. The addition of a talented young safety in Juan Thornhill in the following draft provided hope that the position would be in good hands.

This combination didn’t let Chiefs Kingdom down.

Mathieu quickly established himself as a much needed vocal leader on the defense and Thornhill began impressing as soon as rookie minicamp started. It seemed as though the Chiefs were keeping Thornhill humble by not naming him a starter, but the reality was that that was inevitable.

While Mathieu brought a remarkable mental toughness and smarts with his talented play, Thornhill was the rising rookie whose big-play ability gained him some recognition.

The only unfortunate part about this talented tandem last season was that Thornhill was lost to injury late in the season. Thankfully, it sounds like he’ll be ready by the time training camp begins.

Mathieu begins his second season in Spagnuolo’s system and will certainly become even more comfortable in his role as a leader. It’ll be great to see these safeties get even more comfortable working together in year two.

Fortunately, even when a talented safety like Jamal Adams considers Kansas City a preferred trade destination, the Chiefs are good to go without him.

Chiefs fans should be grateful that such a talented tandem will be roaming the backfield again. This defense is going to improve even more in 2020 and Mathieu and Thornhill will be one of the big reasons why.

Together, they’ll be an x-factor for the Chiefs in 2020.