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GM moves: I didn't agree with signing Cassel long term given he hadn't played a game with the inferior talent around him in KC. I don't think it was bone headed but I would've rather seen something like the Aaron Rodgers situation last season. I don't have a problem with the draft picks as I tend to be patient with those guys. I think they really helped the transition to the 3-4 by getting Jackson, Magee and Vrabel through trade. I don't have a problem with the trade of TG. He was the second greatest Chiefs player during my time as a fan but I like the compensation thinking long term. The trade also marks a philosophical change on offense around KC and the biggest benefactor should be Dwayne Bowe. There will still be struggles in the short term to score points particulary in the red zone where TG was his best in recent years.
Pioli seems to have brought some legitamacy to the KC Chiefs. He seems to have a clear direction for the football team and like the decisions or not it's hard not to like the fact he is certainly an active GM when it comes to finding players.
HC: Haley is unproven both as an OC and HC. He had a nice run with Arizona last season but it remains to be seen whether or not it was just a flash in the pan or a fluke. His HC duties might suffer from his new roles but he has recognized the fact that he has very experienced coaches around him so I believe the burden will begin to be shared as the season progresses. Firing Gailey was a bold move. But I like the message it sends to his players. Those guys are now accountable directly to him and should the offense struggle it will be Haley having to answer for it. Lots of pressure on the rookie coach but I like the fact he's willing to make himself accountable just as he is asking his players to be. Haley is also the best thing that could happen to the current roster of Herm Edwards holdovers. Perhaps the best thing Haley has going for him is his diverse football resume and his experience working with some very good coaches. He may be loud and intimidating but I think he's also pretty smart and understands the need for balance when dealing with these athletes.
QBs: It's our starter (Cassel) and a lot of nothing which is the case with most NFL teams. Long term I think Cassel is going to be a good to great QB.
Strengths: As odd as it is to say, but I really believe the only strength the Chiefs have at this point is at the front office/coaching positions. If I had to chose something on the field I'd say the amount of game experience, albeit losing game experience, that a large portion of the roster got last year.
Weaknesses: There are weaknesses everywhere. The most glaring is roster depth at almost every position including many starting positions along the offensive line.
Analysis: I like the Chiefs chances this year. I don't realistically think it will translate into lots of wins but without seeing other teams play many games I'm probably overly optimistic.
Prediction: 9-7, second place.
Bargain of the year: Mike Vrabel.
Make or break year: Larry Johnson. I don't think he has to gain significant yards, I just think he has to continue to work and be team player
Most likely to have a breakout year: Dwayne Bowe.
Go Chiefs!
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