3 Chiefs' Offseason Issues That Could Ruin Three-Peat

2. Trading L'Jarius Sneed to the Titans

Brett Veach, Andy Reid, and Steve Spagnuolo have more than proven over the years they're capable of identifying and developing players in the secondary. While I love the young players added and believe in Trent McDuffie, Jaylen Watson, Joshua Williams, and the others, Sneed's impact will be difficult to replace.

Sneed was in the conversation for the NFL's best cornerback last season. He wasn't named an All-Pro and didn't command a huge return in the trade, but we all know how valuable he was to the Chiefs last year. His last-second forced fumble on Zay Flowers was the defining highlight of the AFC title game, and he routinely shadowed the opponent's best receiver.

Not only was Sneed exceptional at press coverage and one of the best shadow corners in the league, but him playing that role allowed Trent McDuffie to roam. He forced five fumbles last year, though someone will likely have to shadow more than before.

I'm not overly concerned with this defense, as Sneed is the only major contributor not returning. Bryan Cook will be back from injury, Drue Tranquill has another year of familiarity and George Karlaftis will hopefully experience incremental improvement.

Overall, this should still be an elite defense. With thin margins in the playoffs though, not having Sneed could prove to be an obstacle that must be overcome.