2018 Season NFL Preview: AFC West

Oakland Raiders v Denver Broncos
Von Miller

Kansas City Chiefs

Houston Texans v Kansas City Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes

Alex Smith is a very consistent quarterback who made the Kansas City Chiefs offence very consistent. Head coach Andy Reid decided this year that constant is not what they want anymore. In comes Patrick Mahomes, the 2nd-year quarterback who showed much promise in his rookie year. Even though Mahomes showcased that promise last year in the preseason, it was enough for coach Reid to make the change. This year has been different for Mahomes as he has struggled hard all throughout camp. Did coach Reid make this change a bit early, will the Chiefs regret the decision of letting Alex Smith go. Mahomes has the weapons and a good defence behind him. In the end, the Chiefs success lies in Mahomes hands and hope head coach Andy Reid does not regret his decision.

Strengths: The defence of the Chiefs is outstanding, led by Justin Houston, Dee Ford, Chris Jones, Eric Berry, and Daniel Sorenson. Add in cornerback Kyle Fuller and this Chiefs team can do some damage as we found out in past years. If Mahomes can't perform this year, we can only blame him for the list of offensive weapon that Mahomes has access to is stunning. Kareem Hunt, Tyreek Hill, Travis Kelce, Spencer Ware, and Chanderick West all return to the Chiefs. Added in the summer were wide receiver Sammy Watkins and rookie Demarcus Robinson, and former Miami Dolphins running back Damien Williams to the core.

Weakness: The linebackers on the Chiefs are a little suspect. Newcomer Anthony Hitchens was Excellent in Dallas, but can he be the guy consistently in Kansas City. Former 1st round pick Reggie Ragland joins Hitchens as the glue guys in the linebacker position. The linebackers will be a significant test for the Chiefs as this tandem is the weakest on defence and might get burnt a few times. Injuries are a big always a big concern with the Chiefs year after year. You already have Daniel Sorenson and Eric Berry nursing injuries. Dee Ford only played six games last year. This Chiefs team is known to hit the injury bug and has lost of man-games to injuries. The Chiefs brought in Sammy Watkins, Anthony Hitchens, and Reggie Ragland. Go figure!

Players to Watch: Patrick Mahomes (QB), Dee Ford (LB), Anthony Hitchens (LB), and Demarcus Robinson (WR)

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