Chiefs Need to Call Up Key Practice Squad Player for Super Bowl
By Joe Summers
The Kansas City Chiefs are off preparing for the Super Bowl against the Philadelphia Eagles and a key component of the matchup will be how defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo can slow down a fearsome passing attack led by Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith.
These are some of the most talented skill-position players in the league, to say nothing of superstar running back Saquon Barkley. Spagnuolo will need his best tricks up his sleeve, and the Chiefs are well-equipped to handle the task.
That said, there's one player the team needs to call up from the practice squad. Cornerback Steven Nelson hasn't played a down since rejoining the team from retirement, yet he could still provide an impact during the most important game of the season.
Chiefs Need to Activate CB Steven Nelson in Super Bowl
It's unlikely that Nelson would play a big role in the Super Bowl. He's a 32-year-old defender with plenty of tread on his tires, though his experience could prove to be a valuable asset.
In 2023 with the Houston Texans, Nelson surrendered just a 73.3 passer rating when targeted in coverage, a number that rivals All-Pro Trent McDuffie and some of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. At the very least, he's an upgrade over guys like Nazeeh Johnson and Keith Taylor in the secondary.
Every little advantage matters and Nelson could provide one. He left Kansas City unceremoniously but this could be his opportunity to prove fans wrong. We saw seldom-used Deon Bush seal last year's AFC Championship with a key interception - why can't Nelson do that in the Super Bowl?
This game will be won by guys like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Chris Jones. That said, someone like Nelson could push the Chiefs over the top and give them an unexpected edge.
As things stand, Kansas City is a 1.5-point favorite at FanDuel Sportsbook. With a key play or two from someone like Nelson, the Chiefs will be well on their way to a three-peat.
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