There are a lot of positives going into the game and some specific player to watch
Quentin Morris @quentincmorris Chiefs Focus @Chiefsfocus
After a very productive loss last week in Chicago the Chiefs will continue to get a look at guys who are on the roster bubble. While all young players will benefit from playing time there are a few players to watch to see what they can bring to the team.
This week the Chiefs signed DT Danny Shelton. Shelton is a beast of a man. He stands at 6-2, 345 pounds. He has previous stints with four different franchises including the Browns, Patriots, Lions and Giants.
His skill set comes from his size. He does not generate pass rush from the middle of the line but he is able to eat up blockers due to his size and strength. The Chiefs have had trouble during the Patrick Mahomes era to stop the opposing teams running game. He has the ability to be part of the change.
His signing also put pressure on other guys on the defensive line looking to get snaps at the DT position. Players like Khalen Saunders and Taylor Stallworth need to show their worth to the team because they may risk losing snaps or even a spot on the team.
The running back room is still going to be a group to watch. With poor performances by Derrick Gore and Ronald Jones last week, they need to play better to show off their skill set. The Commanders have a lot of talent on the D-line with players like Chase Young, Montez Sweat and Daron Payne. These are a good test for the running backs.
There are other rookies to watch this week. For example, with injuries to Juju Smith-schuster and Mecole Hardman there is an opportunity to put pressure on Skyy Moore. Last week Moore was able to be an effective part of the Chiefs offense when he was running with twos and threes. This week the opportunity arises to see his potential with Mahomes.
George Karlaftis is another player to keep an eye on. Last week he was able to make a real impact on the game. Personally I want to see him not only continue that level of work but not just depend on his pure strength. It may seem ticky tacky to ask for him to win in other ways but having a player that can win with his strength and using technique is more valuable to the team versus a player that just depends on his strength.
Later in the game the Chiefs will put Shane Buechele in at QB. During the game against the Bears the Buechele played for two quarters and was able to score in the closing minutes of the second quarter. Even though Head Coach Andy Reid has said the starters will get the first half to themselves, if the first team offense is able to drive down and score it is not unreasonable to assume Patric Mahomes will be pulled. Last week back up QB Chad Henne also got one drive before hitting the bench for the rest of the game. If all goes well Buechele Should get even more snaps this week giving him a chance to show his value as a potential backup QB for the franchise.
