Teicher:Chiefs’ inside linebacker competition should be interesting

[Tribal Warfare]

Chiefs’ inside linebacker competition should be interesting
By ADAM TEICHER
The Kansas City Star
One of the most interesting competitions that should develop at training camp is at one inside linebacker position, the spot next to Derrick Johnson. For now, veteran Akeem Jordan is the starter. Jordan was a part-time starter for Andy Reid the last few years with the Eagles, and don’t discount that experience as a factor when the Chiefs make a decision who will start in the Sept. 8 opener against the Jaguars in Jacksonville.

But also don’t underestimate what the Chiefs think of rookie Nico Johnson, a fourth-round draft pick from Alabama. Johnson was used mostly on run downs in college, so he needs to learn to play in pass coverage. But already, Johnson has the look of a quick-study.

“The transition has been kind of easy, being able to play under Coach Saban the past four years,’’ Johnson said, referring to Alabama coach Nick Saban. “The terminology is a little different. That’s kind of what I’m struggling with now, but I’m learning as I go, but each and every day is getting easier and easier.’’

Working alongside Derrick Johnson, a consummate pro, won’t hurt Nico Johnson, either.

“He’s really the first player out of the Chiefs roster to hit me up on Twitter and just tell me congratulations and that it’s time to get to work,’’ Nico Johnson said. “I felt that as motivation to want to go out and do my best and show them I’m willing to work.

“He’s been in that situation before. He’s just trying to keep me and the other linebackers motivated to get better every day. I understand you’re going to make mistakes and just keep moving forward and getting ready for camp.’’

[Rasputin]

I like Alabama linebackers

[Prison Bitch]

Originally Posted by KC Tattoo

I like Alabama linebackers

[Consistent1]

They are going to sign Andre Tippett, Lawrence Taylor and Singletary to play in a 3-4 with DJ, but don't tell anyone.

[IowaChiefs83]

No reason why Nico won't be able to beat out a journeymen for that spot. You just got to put in the effort and show them your worth. If anything we'll bring him in slowly if he can't handle the speed of the NFL right from the start, but regardless he's going to get playing time.

[RealSNR]

Originally Posted by Prison Bitch

Jeromey Clary really likes something he sees

[TinyEvel]

Jeez

[J Diddy]

Originally Posted by Prison Bitch

Oppan Gangnam Style

[Renegade]

I am all in for Johnson & Johnson

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

We should have picked up Urlacher to mentor Nico.

[siberian khatru]

Originally Posted by Renegade

I am all in for Johnson & Johnson

Nobody beats our Johnsons.

[milkman]

Originally Posted by Hog Farmer

We should have picked up Urlacher to mentor Nico.

The next Zach Thomas!

[KC Jones]

Originally Posted by siberian khatru

Nobody beats our Johnsons.

Think we'll send our Johnsons up the inside gap?

[Chiefshrink]

Originally Posted by IowaChiefs83

No reason why Nico won't be able to beat out a journeymen for that spot. You just got to put in the effort and show them your worth. If anything we'll bring him in slowly if he can't handle the speed of the NFL right from the start, but regardless he's going to get playing time.

I get your point, but Alabama and the SEC almost mimic the speed of the NFL game already. As great as Alabama players are and prepared for the NFL, what I worry about especially for the 4yr starter types since their freshman year is 'absolute burnout' and the 'physical toll' by the time they get to the NFL.

Just a thought

[milkman]

Originally Posted by Chiefshrink

I get your point, but Alabama and the SEC almost mimic the speed of the NFL game already. As great as Alabama players are and prepared for the NFL, what I worry about especially for the 4yr starter types since their freshman year is 'absolute burnout' and the 'physical toll' by the time they get to the NFL.

Just a thought