Kansas City Chiefs
I want to say that Dwayne Bowe will have the most impact rookie for the Chiefs this year, but when looking at the depth chart in which aging (but productive) veteran Eddie Kennison and speedy (but inconsistent) Samie Parker hold the top two spots, Bowe, who isn’t a burner, may get limited opportunities to make plays as a rookie. Two rookies that will get opportunities are Tank Tyler and Turk McBride. McBride may move outside to the end as Jared Allen serves his suspension, will get major looks as Herman Edwards tries to find out if he is a ‘player’. The freakishly talented Tank Tyler will be placed in the tackle spot to help solidify the middle of the run defense, if he takes advantage of his time on the field, it could be a big year for Tank and the Chiefs.
Kolby Smith will be competing for a back up role, behind iron-man, Larry Johnson so he had better show he can catch the ball out of the backfield because we know who is getting all of the carries. Kicker Justin Medlock will headline kicking tryouts in the preseason; the job is his to lose. There will be a lot of battles in camp to see which offensive tackles stick with the team; Herb Taylor will get a shot he will have to show toughness as he is a little undersized. One of the good stories out of the combine, tight end, Michael Allan will have to work hard to prove his worth as KC is loaded at the tight end position with Tony Gonzalez and Kris Wilson as receiving targets and the physical Jason Dunn as the blocking tight end.
San Diego Chargers
Norv Turner takes over a Charger team that is young and loaded on both sides of the ball, but a few of these rookies have opportunities to get on the field this year. Brandon Siler has a shot as both inside backers from last years stellar defense have moved on. Anthony Waters will miss his shot due to injury, but he may contend next year. The weaknesses in the secondary were covered pretty well by the ferocious front seven, but everyone knows that there are plays to be made down the middle of the field. Eric Weddle was drafted to be part of the solution in rectifying that situation. Big and fast Eric will get a lot of looks as he tries to remain on the field.
Both drafted wide receivers Craig Davis, (fast and fluid needs to get tougher) and Legedu Naanee (very versatile and physical) will get looks as Norv will concentrate on getting consistency out of all of his receivers. Tight end Scott Chandler is a tall (6-7), fast, receiver that surprises many people with his ability to get down the field, he may shine in two tight end sets when paired with Antonio Gates.
Oakland Raiders and Denver Broncos preview
Augustine J. Dashiell - Augustine is an aspiring sportswriter, looking to gain experience. Looking at his chosen field, he realizes experience is hard to gain and ...
