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4 Most Frustrating Chiefs Despite Dramatic Week 2 Win vs. Bengals

Sep 15, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Erick All Jr. (83) catches a pass as Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton (32) makes the tackle during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Sep 15, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Erick All Jr. (83) catches a pass as Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton (32) makes the tackle during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images / Denny Medley-Imagn Images
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2. Nick Bolton - LB

Bolton finished with seven tackles, but his issues in coverage were a frequent problem throughout the evening. He struggled against the Ravens in Week 1 and things didn't get much better against the Bengals, frequently being beat by tight ends and even getting trucked by Joe Burrow at one point.

Considering this is a contract year, it's hard to envision Bolton being part of the Chiefs' future. He'll likely command a large deal, and Drue Tranquill offers better production at a major discount. With Leo Chenal looking like another draft win for Brett Veach, the writing is on the wall for Bolton's future in Kansas City.

Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo trusts Bolton. He's the player who reads plays to the rest of the defense and is one of the biggest leaders for the two-time defending Super Bowl champions. Even still, Veach and the front office are too wise to commit the kind of money that Bolton likely requires.

Despite the overall struggles in pass coverage, Bolton can still deliver a major hit. If he's willing to take less money to stay in Kansas City, the organization will likely try to make things work.

It's hard to ignore how much of a negative he's been in coverage though. Cincinnati TE Mike Gesecki caught seven passes for 91 yards. Bolton was repeatedly targeted and exploited, raising questions about whether he gives the defense the best chance to succeed.