Chiefs Starter Suddenly on Chopping Block After Week 11 Meltdown

The Chiefs have a major issue in the secondary that was exploited by the Bills in a frustrating loss in Week 11, and one player in particular has to shoulder a large portion of the blame.

Third-year safety Nazeeh Johnson had perhaps the worst day of his career, getting routinely targeted in coverage with no legitimate answer to Josh Allen and Buffalo's offense. Jaylen Watson emerged as the second-best corner and once he went down with injury, Kansas City hasn't recovered.

This is still a defense that ranks among the NFL's best. That said, Johnson's struggles are a major storyline to watch moving forward.

Chiefs S Nazeeh Johnson Suffers Worst Game of His Career

According to Pro Football Focus, Johnson was targeted 12 times while giving up nine receptions for 103 yards and a TD. Allen had a 128.1 passer rating when targeting Johnson, which would easily lead the league.

He was never considered a legitimate starter but still showed significant promise after being selected in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Johnson was a perfect example of general manager Brett Veach's uncanny ability to find late-round defensive backs and turn them into stars, yet Week 11 was a disaster by any measure.

Sometimes, players aren't able to step up when their number is called. That's the case here, and Johnson's struggles have put unnecessary pressure on the defensive line. If he can't stick as the second cornerback, it's time for Steve Spagnuolo to give someone else an opportunity.

These last two weeks have showcased how important Watson is to the defense. Without him, the Chiefs are vulnerable.

Here's hoping Watson gets healthy as soon as possible.

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