Chiefs Tease More Playing Time for Top Rookie in Coming Weeks

The Kansas City Chiefs had an impressive win over the Ravens in their season opener to start their three-peat journey on the right foot. As the team prepares for the Week 2 matchup against the Bengals, we are getting a better idea of how the rotations may change.

One of the surprises in Week 1 for Chiefs fans was how little rookie safety Jaden Hicks was used. One of the standout performers of the training camp and preseason, Hicks was expected to be a bigger part of the defense. Instead, he saw no defensive snaps and was exclusively used as a special teamer.

Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said that will likely change. The Chiefs didn't end up using some of the defensive packages they have against Baltimore and Hicks will get more playing time as the season progresses.

Chiefs News: Steve Spagnuolo Teases More Playing Time for Jaden Hicks

Spags is correct to favor experience in the season opener against one of the best teams in the league. The Chiefs faced a staggering 74 defensive snaps against the Ravens and Justin Reid and Bryan Cook played every single one of them. That will obviously not be the case week in and week out.

It is especially important for the Chiefs to give Hicks more of a look. Reid is entering the final year of his contract and whether GM Brett Veach will give him a contract extension remains to be seen. Hicks is the heir apparent for that role starting next season.

Hicks was a fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft after spending three seasons at Washington State. He just turned 22 and has plenty of years to reach his full potential in the league. It sounds like Chiefs fans will get to see him on the field soon.

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