Chiefs Giving Preseason Star Major Opportunity in Week 8 Raiders Showdown

The Chiefs made an under-the-radar roster move this week, activating preseason standout CB Keith Taylor to take on the Raiders in Week 8.

Taylor's promotion comes on the heels of Jaylen Watson's injury, giving Taylor the opportunity to shine. He'll primarily play special teams though could get some run in the secondary as well, especially considering Kansas City is a massive favorite and might rest starters late.

A fifth-round pick by the Panthers in the 2021 NFL Draft, Taylor spent two years in Carolina and is hoping to stick on an active roster after spending time on practice squads.

Chiefs Promote CB Keith Taylor to Active Roster

He appeared in 34 games over his two seasons with the Panthers, notching 67 tackles, six deflected passes, two fumble recoveries and a forced fumble. At six-foot-three and 195 pounds, Taylor has the kind of size that Steve Spagnuolo covets in defensive backs.

Though Sunday will be the first time he suits up in a regular season game with the Chiefs, Taylor was one of the team's bright spots during the preseason. He snagged an impressive interception against the Lions, earning praise from fans and coaches alike.

Nazeeh Johnson, Chamarri Conner, and Joshua Williams will get the bulk of the snaps, but Taylor has a legitimate path to relevance. He wouldn't be the first unheralded cornerback that Steve Spagnuolo turned into a contributor and the pathetic Raiders are the perfect team to gain experience against.

If the contest goes according to plan, the Chiefs will have a healthy lead in the fourth quarter and Taylor will get some run. Should he perform well, he could quickly become a name for fans to remember for the rest of the season.

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