News: The Kansas City Chiefs filled one of their biggest needs with a massive gamble, selecting Memphis defensive tackle Dontari Poe with the No. 11 pick in the NFL draft. He was one of three defenders the team drafted: The other two were Alabama cornerback DeQuan Menzie and San Diego State defensive tackle Jerome Long.
Analysis: Poe is expected to slide into the middle of Kansas City's 3-4 defensive line and help slow down the run. The other fellas will provide capable depth. The Chiefs added cornerback Stanford Routt this offseason to replace Brandon Carr and will get back safety Eric Berry from a torn ACL suffered last September. This isn't a DST worth drafting but they will have some weeks where they'll be special. Consider using the Chiefs DST off waivers as a one-week option.
News: The Kansas City Chiefs agreed to terms on a $19.6 million, three-year deal with defensive back Stanford Routt on Monday, according to The Associated Press. Routt is still owed $5 million next month from the Raiders, who released him after the first year of a $54.4 million, five-year deal. “We are excited that we were able to come to terms with Stanford,” Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli said. “He is a talented player."
Analysis: Routt should form a good tandem with Brandon Flowers as the starting corners for Kansas City. It's a nice move by the Chiefs, who will probably lose Brandon Carr in free agency in March. Also, safety Eric Berry missed most of the 2011 season with a torn ACL and should be back for '12, and other improvements are sure to be made. We're looking at a sleeper DST for the upcoming year.
News: The Chiefs made Romeo Crennel the permanent head coach on Monday after he led the floundering team to a pair of wins late in the season including one over the then-undefeated Green Bay Packers. The former head coach of the Cleveland Browns, Crennel had been serving as defensive coordinator when general manager Scott Pioli made him the interim coach. Crennel went 24-40 during four years in Cleveland, though the record is somewhat misleading. He took over a suffering franchise short on talent and went 6-10 and 4-12 in his first two seasons, missing the playoffs each year. But his breakthrough came in 2007, when the Browns went 10-6 and fell just short of the playoffs, earning Crennel a two-year contract extension. After falling back to 4-12, though, the affable Crennel was summarily fired. He figures to have a much better chance of success in Kansas City, where Pioli has locked up several young players to long-term deals and continues to overhaul an aging roster.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense should keep on the path they're on with Crennel leading the way, if not improve significantly. Safety Eric Berry missed most of the 2011 season with a torn ACL and should be back for '12, and other improvements are sure to be made. We're looking at a sleeper DST for the upcoming year.
News: Facing the Broncos for the second time on the year in Week 17, the Chiefs held Tim Tebow in check for the entire game, forcing him to make two turnovers and holding the Broncos to a single field goal in a 7-3 victory. Despite rushing for 216 yards as a team, the Broncos managed just 266 yards of total offense on the day, as they were able to manage just 50 through the air. It was the third time this year that the Chiefs held on opponent under 10 points in a game, and they won all three.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense finished the season 11th in total offense, and 13th in scoring defense, so they were a solid unit overall, however they were third-to-last in the league in sacks with fewer than two per game. A lack of a reliable pass rush and inconsistency made them a less useful Fantasy DST unit than their numbers might otherwise appear. They allowed more than 30 points five times on the year, an unacceptable number that made them wholly unreliable for Fantasy owners. They will need to be more consistent next season for Fantasy owners to rely on them, and picking up an elite pass rusher would go a long way to helping that. They'll be a No. 2 Fantasy DST unit on Draft Day next year.
News: Kansas City faces Denver and Tim Tebow in Week 17. The Broncos lead the league in rushing, totaling 161 yards on the ground per game. The Chiefs will try to keep the running attack in check, forcing Tebow to throw the ball. Opposing DSTs are scoring 12.93 Fantasy points per contest versus the Broncos.
Analysis: The Chiefs have had a few nice outings this year, but for the most part have been beaten up this season. The focus of the unit will be on Tebow as he is the motor of the team. In terms of Fantasy value though, the Chiefs DST should be considered a No. 2 option for Week 17.
News: The Chiefs DST did not do much in a 16-13 loss against Oakland on Saturday in Week 16. The Chiefs had no sacks or fumble recoveries, but they did have two interceptions. On special teams, the Chiefs had one kickoff return from Dexter McCluster for 25 yards and one punt return from Javier Arenas for 19 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is a low-end Fantasy option in the majority of leagues. Ignore the unit in most formats in Week 17 at Denver.
News: The Chiefs DST heads into Week 16 against Oakland with a favorable matchup ahead of them. Kansas City and the Raiders met in Week 7 this season and the Chiefs DST recorded six interceptions in the meeting en route to recording a season high for Fantasy points with two defensive or special teams touchdowns and zero points allowed.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST owned the Raiders the first time around this season and the Raiders are allowing the seventh-most Fantasy points per game to DST units on the season. The Chiefs DST is on a roll right now after becoming the first team to beat the Packers this season last week. Fantasy owners can consider the Chiefs DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 16.
News: The Chiefs DST did just enough to stop Aaron Rodgers and the Packers on Sunday at home Week 15. The Chiefs DST held Rodgers and company to 315 yards and actually held on to secure the 19-14 victory, sending the Packers to the team's first loss of the season in improbable fashion. The Chiefs DST did not force a turnover in the game, but sacked Rodgers four times with Tamba Hali notching three of them.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST did an amazing job at holding down the Packers Week 15. That said, the unit didn't have a great Fantasy performance overall. Still, the Chiefs DST have displayed the ability to perform well, especially against lesser competition. That might be what they are getting Week 16 against Oakland. The Raiders gave up 33 Fantasy points to the Chiefs DST back in Week 7. If you are in a bind, consider the Chiefs DST as a worthy low-end Fantasy start for Week 16.
News: The Chiefs DST heads into Week 15 against Green Bay with a slight deer-in-the-headlights look. After giving up 35 points and 314 yards to the Jets last week, the Packers should utterly decimate the Chiefs DST. The Chiefs DST recorded just five Fantasy points against New England, a comparable offense, Week 11. The Patriots racked up 34 points and 380 yards of offense and the Packers could inflict even more pain than that Week 15.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST has barely been worth using at all this season. Facing the highest scoring team in football Week 15, the Chiefs DST should be avoided like the bubonic plague.
News: The Kansas City defense has struggled against the run throughout the season and is ranked 25th in the NFL after yielding 130.3 rushing yards per game. The poor trend continued in Week 14 as the Chiefs surrendered 159 yards on the ground in a 37-10 loss to the Jets on Sunday. Kansas City allowed New York to score on its first offensive possession -- an aspect the Jets have had troubles with -- and were outscored 30-7 in the final three quarters of the game. New York amassed 314 total yards during the easy win.
Analysis: The Chiefs managed few highlights on defense and were unable to record an interception on error-prone Jets QB Mark Sanchez. In addition, Kansas City created just one turnover and registered only one sack on Sanchez. New York finished 5 for 5 with five touchdowns in the red zone as they tallied 28 points in the first half for the first time since scoring 40 against St. Louis in 2008. Fantasy owners shouldn't rely on the Chiefs for the remainder of the season, especially in Week 15 against Green Bay's prolific offense.
News: After turning in arguably its finest performance of the season during a win over Chicago last Sunday, the Kansas City defense will is seeking to repeat the feat in Week 14 against the Jets. The Chiefs managed a season-high seven sacks and held the Bears to a lowly 181 total yards as they snapped a four-game losing streak. Kansas City had managed more than one sack in a game only four times this season before Week 13.
Analysis: The Chiefs also forced three turnovers as they rattled inexperienced Bears QB Caleb Hanie. They could attempt to bring a heavy pressure on New York QB Mark Sanchez, who has had his share of mistakes this season and thrown 11 interceptions. Meanwhile, Kansas City's special teams continues to be paced by Javier Arenas, who is ranked third in the NFL with an average of 13.5 yards on punt returns. While it's unlikely the Chiefs generate seven sacks again, they should be viewed as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 14.
News: The Chiefs DST had a big week against the Bears, holding Chicago to just three points and 181 yards of offense in a Week 13 win. They set a season high for sacks with seven and intercepted Bears QB Caleb Hanie three times. Chiefs LB Justin Houston forced Hanie to also fumble the ball once, though Hanie was able to recover the ball.
Analysis: The Chiefs did what the Raiders couldn't do in Week 12, which is to contain the Bears' offense and take advantage of the inexperience of Hanie. Though they get a decent matchup in Week 14 against the Jets, but the Chiefs DST has not been productive very often this year, and they are still a risky start. Consider the Chiefs DST only in deeper leagues.
News: The Chiefs DST had their best game in weeks when they held the Steelers to 13 points in Week 12. They face a stiffer challenge in Week 13 when they will go up against the Bears, who rank sixth in the league in scoring. The Chiefs catch something of a break, as Caleb Hanie will make the second start of his career as the Bears quarterback. However, in Hanie's starting debut, the Bears still managed to roll up 401 yards against the Raiders in Week 12.
Analysis: The Chiefs are one of Fantasy's least reliable DST units, and even though they will face an inexperienced quarterback in Week 13, they are still a risky start. Owners should continue to avoid the Chiefs DST in all but the deepest of leagues.
News: Kansas City lost to Pittsburgh 13-9 in Week 12, but the defense didn't play poorly. Travis Daniels intercepted Ben Roethlisberger and Amon Gordon recorded a sack for the Chiefs, but for the most part they couldn't get to Big Ben. Kansas City held Pittsburgh to 290 total yards of offense.
Analysis: The Chiefs have not been good this year, but they were able to contain the Steelers somewhat. Kansas City gets Chicago next weekend, a team with Caleb Hanie at the helm. If they can put pressure on him they may be able to force some turnovers. Fantasy owners should look for better options though as the Chiefs are a low-end DST option.
News: Kansas City hosts Pittsburgh in Week 12, the Chiefs second tough matchup in as many weeks. the Chiefs allowed 34 points and 380 yards to the Patriots on Monday night, and failed to record a sack in the contest. Pittsburgh as given up 31 sacks on the year as Ben Roethlisberger has taken a beating.
Analysis: Kansas City has not been able to stop anyone the last few weeks. Over the last three games the Chiefs have recorded just three sacks and forced one turnover. With the Steelers playing on offense it is difficult to justify using the Chiefs DST in Week 12. Fantasy owners should not be starting the Chiefs DST unit at this time.
News: New England put the hurt on Kansas City in the Week 11 Monday night game. The Chiefs DST allowed the Patriots to rack up 380 yards of offense in the 34-3 defeat. The Chiefs DST only forced one turnover on a fumble recovery in the contest. The Chiefs DST did manage to take down QB Tom Brady three times in the contest.
Analysis: After the Chiefs DST recorded 48 Fantasy points in a two-game span Weeks 7 and 8 against Oakland and San Diego, the unit has been horrendous in the last three games. Miami, Denver and the Patriots have run up the score on the Chiefs DST and the unit has recorded just three sacks and one forced turnover in those games. Heading into Week 12 against Pittsburgh, we cannot recommend the Chiefs DST in Fantasy formats.
News: The Chiefs DST could be a bit shorthanded in Week 11 against the Patriots. CB Brandon Flowers (back), DB Brandon Carr (ankle) and DB Jon McGraw (neck/shoulder) have been limited in practice this week. However, both Carr and McGraw are likely to play on Sunday. New England enters Sunday's contest ranked third in total offense, averaging 431.9 total yards and 28.8 points per game. Kansas City enters the contest ranked 20th in total defense, allowing 364.3 yards and 24.2 points per game. The Chiefs DST is ranked, 25th in terms of Fantasy points and have racked up nine sacks, while forcing 15 turnovers thus far.
Analysis: After facing the run-happy Broncos last week, the Chiefs DST will now have to try and slow down New England's aerial attack. Tom Brady loves to sling the ball all over the field, which could make things tough for Kansas City's depleted secondary. While the Chiefs DST has turned in a few solid performances this season, the unit has been way too inconsistent consider anything more than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST. Continue to view them as such heading into Week 11.
News: The Chiefs DST was non-existent Sunday against the Broncos in a 17-10 loss. The Chiefs had no turnovers and no sacks. On special teams, the Chiefs got three punt returns for 30 yards by Javier Arenas and also three kickoff returns for 52 yards by Arenas as well.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is a low-end Fantasy option in the majority of leagues and should not be used in Week 11 at New England on Monday night.
News: The Chiefs DST is looking for a rebound performance in Week 10 against the Broncos after a disappointing game in Week 9 against the Dolphins. The Chiefs had no Fantasy points against Miami in a standard league after scoring 48 points in their previous two games against Oakland and San Diego. Denver could help Kansas City get back on track since Tim Tebow can be turnover prone and has been sacked 14 times in three games as a starter.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST has the chance to play well at home against the Broncos, but they remain too risky to start in most leagues. Consider the Chiefs DST just a No. 2 Fantasy option in most formats.
News: The Chiefs and the rest of the football world were stunned Week 9 when Miami destroyed Kansas City, 31-3, for its first win of the season. Anthony Fasano scored two touchdowns and QB Matt Moore passed for three scores in the stunning upset. The Chiefs didn't force a turnover or sack Moore. Miami finished with 351 yards, including 107 on the ground.
Analysis: Chiefs coach Todd Haley came into Week 9 respecting the previously winless Dolphins. People were probably looking at him cross-eyed, but Haley's worst nightmare came true Sunday. The Chiefs DST came into the week as a sleeper Fantasy start because Miami has been so bad, but they certainly disappointed. Next up in Week 10 is a showdown with Denver. The Chiefs DST will remain at best a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Chiefs coach Todd Haley isn't taking the 0-7 Miami Dolphins lightly heading into their Week 9 showdown. “They are well coached and they are doing a lot of things the right way," Haley said. "They’ve not given up. They have a number of players that can be disruptive, on both sides of the ball. Obviously there are some things that are costing them games.”
Analysis: Haley is saying all the right things, but the fact of the matter is that the Miami offense remains in neutral with QB Matt Moore running the show. RB Reggie Bush and WR Brandon Marshall continue to have decent outings, but Miami doesn't have a high-powered offense. It is averaging just 318.9 yards and 15.3 points per game. The Dolphins could get RB Daniel Thomas back from a hamstring injury this week, but the Chiefs DST is still a viable Fantasy play.
News: The Chiefs surrendered 20 points on 447 yards of total offense in Week 8 against the Chargers. The unit allowed San Diego to march up and down the field, but were able to hold them to just one touchdown in the 23-20 victory. The Chargers were forced to settle for field goals most of the night and were also forced into four turnovers by Kansas City, including a pair of interceptions. The Chiefs also recovered a pair of fumbles and sacked Philip Rivers three times in the win.
Analysis: While the Chiefs gave up a ton of yards Monday night, they were unable to keep the Chargers out of the end zone for most of the game and came up with big plays when they needed to. After forcing just five turnovers through the first five games of the season, Kansas City's defense has forced 10 over their last two contests. Eight of those have been interceptions with two being returned for touchdowns. While the unit still has some holes to plug in, they look to have another very favorable matchup in Week 9 against the Dolphins. Miami is a mess on offense right now and are still winless. Consider the Chiefs a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST in Week 9.
News: During Friday’s practice, the coaching staff had the defensive players working on recovering fumbles. Through the first six games of the season, opponents have fumbled the ball seven times, but Kansas City has failed to recover any of the loose balls. The unit will be looking to change that trend in Week 8 against the Chargers. “It really started to nag at me. We have not recovered fumbles, whether offense or defense, so obviously we are doing something wrong. So we had a little emphasis on that,” coach Todd Haley said. In the last 44 games, the Chiefs have recovered 24 opponent fumbles, but they are the only team yet to recover a fumble this season.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST turned in their best effort of the season last week against the Raiders, finishing with six turnovers -- all interceptions --with two of those returned for touchdowns. However, it remains to be seen whether or not the unit actually turned a corner last week or was just able to take advantage of a good matchup. San Diego should present a much tougher challenge, even with the injuries they are dealing with on the offensive side of the ball. The Chiefs gave up 20 points on 375 yards of total offense the first time these two teams played this season and also racked up two sacks and a pair of turnovers. Consider Kansas City a No. 2 Fantasy DST on Monday night.
News: The Chiefs DST turned in their best effort of the season in Week 8 against the Raiders. The unit forced a season-high six turnovers -- all interceptions -- in the 28-0 victory and returned two of them for touchdowns. DB Kendrick Lewis intercepted Kyle Boller's first pass attempt of the game and returned it 59 yards for a touchdown to give Kansas City an early 7-0 lead. Brandon Flowers then picked off Carson Palmer early in the fourth and rumbled 58 yards for a score, which would be the last points scored in the game. The Chiefs DST also registered a sack, while holding Oakland to 322 total yards of offense.
Analysis: The Chiefs have not been one of the top defensive units this season, but boy did they come to play on Sunday. The unit surpassed its entire turnover total for the season against the Raiders, while registering their first two scores and pitching a shutout. However, things may get a little tougher next week when the Chargers head to town. San Diego has a ton of weapons on the offensive side of the ball and can put up points in a hurry. Consider the Chiefs a No. 2 Fantasy DST heading into Week 8.
News: The Chiefs DST will be looking to slow down the Raiders in Week 6. Oakland enters Sunday's contest ranked 11th in total offense, averaging 372.8 total yards and 26.7 points per game thus far. Oakland will also have a new QB under center for the contest, as Jason Campbell will miss at least six weeks after breaking his collarbone. That means Kyle Boller or newly acquired Carson Palmer will draw the start on Sunday. Kansas City's DST is ranked 31st, in terms of Fantasy points, after racking up five sacks and forcing five turnovers through the first five games of the season.
Analysis: The Chiefs have struggled on defense thus far, but have started to play a little better over the past few weeks. Still, the unit has allowed at least 20 points in every contest this season and have yet to come up with a fumble recovery. While the Raiders have a ton of question marks on the offensive side of the ball heading into Sunday -- especially at QB -- Kansas City will still have to deal with Oakland's potent rushing attack, no matter who lines up under center. Consider the Chiefs a No. 2 Fantasy DST heading into Week 7.
News: After permitting 24 points in the first half in Sunday's game against Indianapolis, Kansas City knew it had to clamp down after halftime for its first road win of the season. The Chiefs, who allowed the Colts to score on three of their first four possessions, effectively limited QB Curtis Painter in the second half to capture a 28-24 victory in Week 5. Painter opened the game 12 of 17 for 237 yards and a near-perfect 152.2 QB rating. However, Kansas City held the inexperienced quarterback to three completions and 40 passing yards after halftime.
Analysis: During the Chiefs' sluggish first half, they surrendered a touchdown pass on the opening possession of the game -- Indianapolis' initial first-quarter touchdown of the season. Kansas City yielded only 17 more points after that, including shutting out the Colts in the second half. Still, the Chiefs faltered rushing the quarterback and did not record a sack for the first time this season. They had a season-high three sacks in Week 4 against Minnesota. Consider Kansas City a low-end DST option in Week 7 at Oakland following the team's bye.
News: With its Week 5 opponent possessing several rookies on its offensive line, Kansas City will likely utilize an aggressive pass rush against Indianapolis QB Curtis Painter, who made his first NFL start in Week 4 last Monday. Tampa Bay sacked Painter four times, and when the third-year veteran wasn’t getting knocked to the ground, he was still under pressure. The Chiefs have recorded two sacks in each of their past two games.
Analysis: Kansas City had played recently after allowing each of its first two opponents this season to score at least 41 points. The Chiefs do possess one of the top-producing special teams this year as Javier Arenas has netted an average of 20.7 yards on punt returns, which is second-best in NFL (Erick Decker, 25.6). With Painter expected to be under center, Kansas City could make for a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST in Week 5.
News: The Chiefs' defense did just enough to help the team to its first victory of the season, a 22-17 win over the Vikings in Week 4. Though Minnesota managed to amass a net total of 341 yards, they reached the end zone just twice. The Chiefs did not put much pressure on QB Donovan McNabb, sacking him just twice. His one fumble, which was recovered, was the result of a broken play. Chiefs DB Brandon Carr got the game's only interception, picking off McNabb in the second quarter. The ensuing drive resulted in a 24-yard field goal by Ryan Succop.
Analysis: Only the Rams had a less productive DST unit coming into Week 4, and the Chiefs did not produce much for their owners in their tilt against the Vikings. The Colts present a better matchup in Week 5, but the Chiefs are still not worth using in virtually any Fantasy format.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Chiefs coach Todd Haley and Romeo Crennel's defense faces its biggest test of a young season Week 4 when they try to stop Adrian Peterson and the Minnesota running game. In three games this year, the Chiefs run defense has been less than special, ranked No. 28 among 32 teams and allowing 123 rushing yards per game. They've faced Fred Jackson, Jahvid Best and Ryan Mathews, all good backs, but not in the same class as Peterson. "He's the complete package," Haley said of Peterson. "Arm tackles aren't going to cut it with this guy. You need everybody doing their job and everybody getting to him because it generally takes more than one to get him down."
Analysis: With Peterson ahead and three games into the season, Haley is more than willing to say that his defense is still a work in progress. "We're trying to best figure out how we need to play to give us the best chance to succeed," Haley admitted on Wednesday. "Defensively more than anything with the (Eric) Berry situation, we've had to adjust more so just because of what an integral part of how we had gone into this year's thinking he was in the way we were going to play defense." Losing strong safety Eric Berry to a knee injury for the rest of the season has put a crimp in Crennel's plans and has the Chiefs shuffling bodies and schemes. Nothing has much worked for their defense against the run, as they gave up 163 yards to Buffalo, 89 to Detroit and 117 yards last week to the Chargers. The Chiefs also have the worst-scoring defense in the NFL, allowing 36.3 points per game, so look to other Fantasy options over the Chiefs DST in Week 4.
News: Even though Kansas City lost to San Diego, 20-17, the defense showed significant improves in Week 3. The Chiefs held the Chargers to under 40 points and didn't let Philip Rivers throw for a touchdown pass for the first time this year. San Diego did run for more than 100 yards, but they held them under the 438.5 yards of total offense they had been running up on defenses. The Chiefs intercepted Rivers twice and sacked him twice.
Analysis: Kansas City still has plenty of work to do, but they did take a step in the right direction. The Chiefs host the Vikings, who have a dangerous running back but a lackluster passing attack. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the Chiefs, but they are not a recommended start in any league yet.
News: Through the first two weeks of the season Kansas City is giving up 44.5 points per contest as well as 387.5 total yards of offense. That is not what the Chiefs were aiming for coming into the season, but the loss of Eric Berry and injuries to some other key components of the defense has definitely hurt this squad. Entering Week 3, the Chiefs face the Chargers, a team that is averaging 438.5 yards of total offense per contest and 22.5 points per game.
Analysis: With a healthy defensive unit the Chiefs would have low-end Fantasy value, but the way they are playing right now sends out many red flags. Until this defense starts to get pressure on the opposing team's quarterback and can hold a team to under 30 points per contest, they are not worth bothering with in Fantasy leagues. Continue to ignore the Chiefs' DST.
News: After getting gashed by the Bills 41-7 last week, the Chiefs defense was embarrassed further Week 2 against the Lions. QB Matthew Stafford tossed four seemingly easy touchdowns on the afternoon, and RB Jahvid Best totaled 100 yards and scored a pair as well. Even the No. 2 Detroit offense came in and got the ball in the end zone. The Chiefs defense allowed 411 yards (322 passing) in the loss and they gave up 48 points in the blowout. They did force one Stafford pick, but they did not notch a sack.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense was solid in 2010, and they were able to pressure QBs week in, week out. The loss of DB Eric Berry was big last week, but even he could not have done much against the Lions explosive offense. The once-decent option should not be considered to be an ownable option until they turn things around in a hurry. Do not consider the Chiefs DST to be of value in any format for Week 3 against Philip Rivers and the Chargers.
News: After getting gashed by the Bills 41-7 last week, the Chiefs defense has much work to do. Not only that, but standout safety Eric Berry has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a torn ACL. “He’s one of the best in the league and those guys just aren’t sitting in locker rooms not playing," FS Kendrick Lewis said. "The guy that steps in has to step up, and everybody else has to contribute a little something more.”To make matters worse, the team has to travel to Detroit to play the explosive Lions in Week 2. QB Matthew Stafford is healthy as is RB Jahvid Best, so the defense in Kansas City has a tall task at hand. Detroit put up 431 total yards and 27 points in a win over Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Bills less-explosive offense nearly notched 400 yards against the Chiefs at their place last week, so Fantasy owners have little to hope for heading into the matchup. Lions WR Calvin Johnson has been banged up during the week, which would help the defense focus more on stopping Best. Even in that scenario, the Chiefs DST is not a recommended unit. Consider other options for the tough Week 2 matchup.
News: NFL.com reports that Chiefs safety Eric Berry has been diagnosed with a torn ACL, suffered in the team's Week 1 loss to Buffalo. He will miss the remainder of the season as a result. The Chiefs allowed 41 points and 364 yards in Week 1 to Buffalo.
Analysis: This is another big setback for a defense that was steamrolled by the Buffalo Bills at home in Week 1. Sabby Piscatelli is likely to slide into Berry's spot, which is a significant downgrade. Consider the Chiefs DST a low-end Fantasy option Week 2 since K.C. plays Detroit, who has a very good offense.
News: The Chiefs came into Week 1 against the Bills with a game plan of putting pressure on QB Ryan Fitzpatrick. Unfortunately, they failed miserably in a 41-7 loss. Fitzpatrick fired four touchdowns as Buffalo rolled up 364 yards of offense. The Chiefs forced just one turnover and one sack. “That group is a tight-knit group that believes in each other and stuck together today," coach Todd Haley said of his defense. "There weren’t any signs of guys not doing that. We’ll figure out a way to get better; you can’t pin it on any one group except for the head coach. Positions the defense were in were positions where no one would have a chance to succeed. I have to have our team more prepared to play football games.”
Analysis: Everything went wrong for the Chiefs in Week 1. The Bills started some drives with great field position, which put the defense up against it. The Bills built a pretty good lead by halftime and it only got worse in the second half. The Chiefs are better than they showed in Week 1, but they kind of fell apart after safety Eric Berry left in the first quarter with a knee injury. The extent isn't known yet, but if Berry is out for a significant period, then it could be a long season for the Chiefs. Consider the Chiefs DST a low-end Fantasy option Week 2 since K.C. plays Detroit, who has a very good offense.
News: The mobility of Buffalo QBs Ryan Fitzpatrick and Brad Smith has the Chiefs pass rush thinking discipline heading into their Week 1 showdown with the Bills. “You have to be more persistent and cognizant in your rush lanes,” DE Wallace Gilberry said. "Guys like that can hurt you. You give up a seam and they’ll definitely take advantage.”
Analysis: Kansas City's best pass rusher is outside linebacker Tamba Hali, but if rush ends Glenn Dorsey and Tyson Jackson can help out, then K.C. might improve on their 39 sacks in 2010, which was tied for ninth best in the NFL. The Chiefs have a very good defensive coordinator in Romeo Crennel, so they could definitely get after the QB in 2011. Consider the Chiefs DST a viable Fantasy option in Week 1. The Chiefs held Buffalo to 10 points and 328 yards last season.
News: It certainly was not a storybook ending for the Kansas City Chiefs in Sunday's AFC Wild Card playoff loss to Baltimore. The Chiefs DST allowed Baltimore to rack up 390 total yards of offense and Kansas City could muster just 161 in the 30-7 embarrassing home loss. The Chiefs DST forced two Baltimore turnovers in the game, both coming on fumbles. The Chiefs got four sacks of QB Joe Flacco in the game with Tamba Hali getting two and Jovan Belcher notching 1 1/2.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST finished the season with a dud against the Ravens, a team not exactly known for its offense. In fact, the Chiefs DST struggled in the last two games it played overall against the Ravens and Raiders in Week 17. The team played fairly well all season but was still nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy option most weeks. That is exactly how they should be viewed heading into next season.
News: The Chiefs DST did little in the regular-season finale in Week 17 against the Raiders. The Chiefs had four sacks and recovered a fumble, but they also allowed 31 points in the loss. On special teams, Dexter McCluster had three kick returns for 78 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST still has at least one more game to play in the first round of the playoffs. Keep an eye on how they do, but the Chiefs DST should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy option in 2011.
News: The Chiefs DST will face the Raiders in Week 17, a team that put up 272 yards in the second half of their meeting earlier this season. The Raiders scored 23 points in that matchup but have averaged 31 points in their last four games.
Analysis: The Chiefs have held opponents to 14 points or fewer in three of their last four games, so something will have to give on Sunday afternoon. Kansas City will also be looking to score a defensive touchdown for the second straight week. Consider this unit a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 17.
News: The Chiefs capped a strong first half defensive effort with a 54-yard interception returned for a touchdown by Eric Berry. The Chiefs held the Titans to 270 yards of offense and sacked QB Kerry Collins three time in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs have held opponents to 14 points or fewer in three of their last four games. They haven't been playing offensive juggernauts, but don't play one in Week 17 against the Raiders either. Consider the Chiefs a viable play in deeper leagues.
News: The Chiefs did not enter Week 15 as one of the league's premier defensive units, but they played like it in a 27-13 win over St. Louis. They limited the Rams to 224 total yards of offense, frustrating rookie QB Sam Bradford in particular, holding him to 181 passing yards. The Chiefs also sacked Bradford three times and picked him off twice late in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Bradford has been slumping lately, so it's hard to know exactly how much credit to give the Chiefs DST for the results in Week 15. The Titans won't be much more of a test in Week 16, so the Chiefs might be worth a shot, especially in deeper leagues.
News: One week after getting manhandled by the Chargers, the Chiefs' DST gets an easier assignment with a Week 15 matchup against the Rams. While the Chargers rank among the top offensive teams in the NFL, the Rams rank in the bottom third in both points scored and yardage gained. However, if the Chiefs DST is going to have a good week, it will have to be in limiting the Rams' movement up and down the field. The Rams are better than the average NFL team in avoiding interceptions, fumbles and sacks.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST should do a little better than normal in Week 15, but they are a mediocre unit to begin with. They can be used as No. 2 Fantasy DST for this coming weekend.
News: Kansas City entered its Week 14 game with an opportunity to lock up the AFC West division title against a slumping San Diego offense. However, it was the Chiefs who looked sluggish as the Chargers rolled to a 31-0 rout on Sunday. San Diego scored on three of its first four possession and racked up 426 yards of total offense as Kansas City allowed its highest points total in four games. “It was not close,” Chiefs coach Todd Haley said. “I said coming into this that they were a very good team and they showed it today. We obviously did not do enough to win in too many areas to really talk about.” The Chiefs did record two sacks and now have 10 in their last four games.
Analysis: Kansas City, which entered the game best in the division with 237 points allowed, was barreled over by a strong running game and surrendered 50 rushing yards to three different Chargers running backs Sunday. San Diego piled up 25 first downs and converted an astounding 73 percent of its third-down plays (11 of 15) against a beleaguered Chiefs defense that was on the field for over 40 minutes. The Kansas City defense was lethargic from the outset of the game and forced just two punts against the Chargers, who scored on five of their nine possessions. Week 15 offers the possibility of a rebound for the Chiefs, who travel to St. Louis. Consider them a No. 2 Fantasy DST.
News: The slumping San Diego offense may be playing an improved Kansas City defense at an inopportune time in Week 14. The Chiefs, who hold a two-game lead in the AFC West standings over the Chargers and Raiders, have not allowed an opponent to reach 25 points during their current three-game win streak. San Diego, meanwhile, has been beset by injuries to its receiving corps and produced only two offensive touchdowns in its last two games. Kansas City has also allowed a division-least 237 points this season and held San Diego to its second-lowest offensive output of the season (14 points) in the teams' Week 1 meeting. “I think that gave us a lot of confidence going into the following weeks,” Chiefs running back Thomas Jones said about the first matchup. “You have to have a short memory but I think it was great that we started off that way.”
Analysis: The Chiefs have been able to effectively pressure opposing quarterbacks in the last three games, recording eight sacks in that span. The Chargers, who owned the league's top-ranked offense for most of the season, have seen their passing game struggle lately and quarterback Philip Rivers has thrown for just one touchdown in his last two games. He threw for two scores in the Week 1 meeting but also recorded his second-lowest completion percentage of the season (56.4 percent). If Kansas City can harass Rivers again, it could make for a sneaky low-end No. 2 Fantasy IDP in Week 14.
News: The Chiefs DST played well in Week 13 against Kansas City on Sunday. The Chiefs beat the Broncos 10-6 with Kansas City getting one fumble recovery and four sacks. They also held the Broncos to 247 total yards. On special teams, Dexter McCluster had three kickoff returns for 60 yards and two punt returns for 6 yards. Javier Arenas also had two punt returns for 8 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST was a huge surprise in this matchup with the Broncos, and hopefully it's a performance they can build on going forward. But the Chiefs DST has a tough matchup in Week 14 at San Diego, and we only consider the Chiefs DST a No. 2 Fantasy option against the Chargers.
News: The Chiefs defense did a solid job of limiting the Seahawks offense in Week 12. Although they allowed 24 points, Kansas City surrendered just 288 yards of total offense in the 42-24 win. Seattle was held to 20 yards on the ground. The Chiefs had two mishaps on special teams though as the Seahawks blocked both a field goal and a punt, which they returned for a touchdown. DBs Kendrick Lewis and Travis Daniels each had an interception in the victory and LB Derrick Johnson had a sack and a forced fumble. Kansas City sacked QB Matt Hasselbeck two times in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense gave up some big plays through the air in Week 12 but were otherwise dominant in the convincing win. They have only allowed more than 24 points two times this season and have been solid against the run. The two gaffes on special teams were regrettable but the overall performance of their DST was solid. With the Broncos high-powered offense up next on the schedule, Fantasy owners would be wise to consider the Chiefs DST as a No. 2 option in Week 13. The last time the division foes met, Denver scored 49 points and put up 452 yards of total offense.
News: Don't look now, but the Chiefs might be without two starters in their defensive secondary at Seattle on Sunday. CB Brandon Flowers (hamstring) sat out Friday’s practice, and there seems little chance he’ll be ready to go Sunday in Seattle. Flowers was in the rehab area riding a stationary bike during the team’s 90-minute session. FS Jon McGraw (knee/head) was practicing Friday, but there remain questions about whether and how much he might play Sunday in Seattle. McGraw was not working with the No. 1 secondary and has not done so for two weeks. Potential starters for both men are CB Travis Daniels and FS Kendrick Lewis.
Analysis: Seattle's passing game sure won't miss Flowers out there if he's inactive, and the Chiefs certainly will miss him. He's played outstanding ball for much of the season, and his absence might result in a good day for the Seahawks' passing offense. Owners might want to think twice about starting the Chiefs DST in Week 12 since they could get rocked through the air.
News: The Chiefs defense didn't turn up in the way many Fantasy owners expected him to in Week 11 against the Cardinals. They did hold Arizona to 13 points, with seven of those coming on the last play of the game, but they gave up 382 yards and failed to record a turnover. The unit sacked Derek Anderson twice.
Analysis: The Cardinals only went 4 of 15 on third downs Sunday, otherwise this game could have been a lot closer than it was, as the Chiefs DST continues their struggles against the air game, with Anderson throwing for 295 yards. In Week 12, things should get a little easier when the Chiefs head to Seattle, but this relatively average outing will give Chiefs owners something to think about.
News: The Chiefs DST has been consistently average this season, averaging just 10.4 Fantasy points a game in standard leagues, but Week 11 they will be facing an Arizona team that could provide them with a good amount of turnover opportunities. The Cardinals have the fourth-worst turnover margin in the league at minus-8.
Analysis: Each Fantasy DST unit usually puts together one superb performance each season, and this could be the week the Chiefs go off. They have put together two 17-point weeks so far, but the top Fantasy units usually put up at least a couple of 20-point weeks. If you're one of those owners who play the matchups with DSTs every week, think about using the Chiefs in most formats.
News: The Chiefs defense was gashed by the Broncos in week 10. The unit surrendered a season-high 49 points and allowed 452 total yards of offense. The Broncos were able to take advantage of the Chiefs' depleted secondary with Kendrick Lewis and Jon McGraw out with injuries and scored on their first four offensive possessions of the game. The Chiefs defense was unable to put any kind of pressure on Kyle Orton and failed to record a sack or force a turnover in the 49-29 loss.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense has been much improved this season, but they laid a stinker on Sunday. The unit could not stop the Broncos on the ground or through the air and will need to go back to drawing board before the Cardinals come to town in Week 11. While Arizona has had their share of problems on offense this season they still have plenty of weapons and can put up points in a hurry. Consider the Chiefs a low-end Fantasy DST heading into Week 11.
News: The Chiefs defense will be looking to try and slow down Denver's passing game in Week 10. The Broncos are ranked dead last in rushing offense, however, boast the league's fourth best passing offense (296 ypg). The Chiefs are ranked 21st in pass defense, allowing an average of 233 yards per game and have surrendered 10 touchdowns through the air this season. The unit is ranked 16th, in terms of Fantasy points and have racked up 18 sacks and forced 12 turnovers on the season.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense has been much improved this season, which has been a big reason for the team's surprising turnaround. The Chiefs have been stingy against the run this season, but suspect at times against the pass, so expect Denver to try and air it out a bit on Sunday. Although the Broncos are just 2-6 on the season, Kyle Orton has played well this season and can pick apart opposing team's secondaries. Fantasy owners should consider the Chiefs a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST heading into Week 10.
News: The Chiefs defense did a solid job of stopping the Raiders in the first half of Week 9, but things started falling apart after that. Kansas City held Oakland to just 49 total yards and zero points before halftime on Sunday, but things would change early after the break. WR Jacoby Ford took the opening kickoff of the second half 94 yards for a touchdown and QB Jason Campbell led the Raiders all the way back to send the game into overtime. The Chiefs picked off Campbell once and sacked him four times but gave up 321 yards of offense in the 23-20 loss.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST was lights-out in the first half on Sunday but could not slow down Oakland and ended up losing the game in the end. Campbell did not have a great game but Kansas City allowed him to make too many big plays when it mattered. There is a lot to like about the Chiefs defense but they will have to prove to be more consistent before becoming a solid Fantasy option. With the Broncos and their fourth ranked passing offense coming up in Week 10, consider the Chiefs DST a low-end option for next Sunday's matchup.
News: The Chiefs have done a solid job doing two things this season: running the ball and stopping the run. They will face off against a Raiders team in Week 9 that does the same thing. Oakland has the second best running attack in the league, led by RBs Darren McFadden and Michael Bush, but Kansas City has the seventh best rush defense, limiting teams to under 97 yards per game. While the Chiefs have not been as stellar against the pass (23rd in the NFL) the Raiders come into Sunday's matchup averaging 197.5 passing yards per game, good for 20th in the league.
Analysis: The Chiefs have been one of the bigger surprises in the NFL this season and their defense and helped them become relevant again. Defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel has worked his magic before and has Kansas City in the midst of a playoff race. Oakland has become one of the better rushing teams in the league so the key to Sunday's game will be slowing down McFadden and Bush. Despite giving up 137 yards to the Bills a week ago, Fantasy owners should continue to view the Chiefs DST as a No. 1 option for Week 9.
News: The Chiefs entered Week 8 with the league's fifth-best rushing defense, and they held a mediocre Bills' rushing attack to 137 yards. Buffalo mustered 328 offensive yards overall, as the Chiefs prevailed 13-10 in overtime. Kansas City sacked Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick three times and picked him off once, and they also forced three fumbles, though they did not recover any of them.
Analysis: As expected, the Chiefs stymied the Bills' running game, and they kept the passing game in check as well, helping Fitzpatrick to his worst start of the season. They should have a more difficult time with their Week 9 opponent, the Raiders, who have one of the league's more potent rushing offenses. Owners may be able to find better options for their DST for the coming week.
News: The Bills head into their Week 8 matchup with the Chiefs without a win, but that doesn't mean Kansas City can take them lightly. Since switching to QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, the Bills have shown some life on offense. Buffalo is averaging 26 points in Fitzpatrick's four starts, failing to score less than 26 points just once. The Chiefs will combat that with the 17th ranked total defense (333.5 ypg) and seventh ranked scoring defense (18.7 ppg).
Analysis: The Chiefs are 4-2 to start the season and a lot of their success has come because of the defense. The team is really responding to the coaching of defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel. However, the Chiefs have been a little vulnerable as of late. Houston and Jacksonville has combined for 55 points in the last two games against the Chiefs. With the way the Bills have been moving the football, the Chiefs could give up some points in Week 8. But with their track record this season, you probably should consider starting the Chiefs DST in Week 8.
News: The Chiefs DST played well in Week 7 against Jacksonville. The Chiefs beat the Jaguars 42-20, but the DST scored a touchdown on an interception return from LB Derrick Johnson and recorded two interceptions in the game. The Chiefs DST also had two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one sack. On special teams, the Chiefs had two kickoff returns from Javier Arenas for 44 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST played well against the Jaguars and has another favorable matchup in Week 8 against Buffalo. Plan on starting the Chiefs DST as a No. 1 option against the Bills.
News: The Chiefs DST heads into Week 7 against Jacksonville looking to rebound from a poor outing in Week 6 at Houston, and they should perform well with a great matchup. Against the Texans, the Chiefs DST managed just two Fantasy points on two sacks with no turnovers, but the Jaguars offense isn't nearly as explosive, especially with David Garrard (concussion) out. The Jaguars offense is mediocre at best when Garrard is the starter, but the potential for Todd Bouman to be the No. 1 option should help the Chiefs DST thrive. They started the season with three games in a row with double digits in Fantasy points, and they have the chance to reach that mark again this week. Jacksonville managed just 249 yards of total offense last week against the Titans with three interceptions and a lost fumble, and the Jaguars scored only three points.
Analysis: Look for Jacksonville to struggle again, and the Chiefs DST is worth starting in all leagues. We consider them a No. 1 Fantasy option, and they are a quality sleeper unit for Week 7.
News: The Chiefs DST could stop nothing when it mattered and the Houston Texans came from behind to beat them Week 6, 35-31. The Chiefs DST gave up 421 total yards of offense to the Texans and gave up 21 fourth-quarter points to lose the game. Houston could not be stopped in the red zone and the Chiefs did not force a single turnover in the game. They only managed two sacks of QB Matt Schaub and those two sacks belonged to players who don't often appear in the stat sheet for Kansas City. Dexter McCluster and Javier Arenas did a nice job in the return game but there were no defensive or special teams touchdowns to speak of.
Analysis: The two sacks marked just the second time all season the Chiefs DST finished with more than one in a game. The Chiefs DST has not been able to force turnovers or limit opposing offenses and their only real claim to fame is scoring a defensive touchdown in each of the season's first two weeks. Since then they've been dismal and are not worth using in Fantasy play for Week 7 against Jacksonville.
News: The Chiefs DST will have a tall task ahead of them in the Week 6 game at Houston. The Texans have not been playing solid football of late but will be giving their best effort to try to turn things around. The high-powered offense of Houston should not have trouble carving up the Kansas City defense as the Chiefs have allowed at least 250 yards of offense in every game thus far. They've allowed at least 299 yards in three of their four games and turnovers have been scarce. That said, the Chiefs have scored two DST touchdowns and that is why they do not rank completely horrendously among Fantasy DSTs on the year. They have still not been close to a No. 1 unit.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST has only managed three interceptions, eight sacks -- and five came in one game -- and two fumble recoveries on the season. The two defensive touchdowns are the only thing that has breathed life into an otherwise dismal Fantasy DST. Things are not going to get easier in Week 6 as the Texans can score with the best of them. Plus, Houston has not allowed opposing DSTs very many solid efforts this year. The Texans are allowing the sixth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing DSTs. The Giants got to them last week but the Raiders DST didn't manage a single Fantasy point against Houston Week 4. The chips are stacked against them and the Chiefs DST is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 6.
News: Kansas City held the high-powered Colts offense in check Week 5, but it still wasn't enough to squeak out a win, as Indianapolis prevailed, 19-9. The Chiefs held QB Peyton Manning and the Colts out of the end zone until late in the fourth quarter when Mike Hart scored from 11 yards out on the ground. "They did exactly what they've done [all season] in terms of keeping teams out of the end zone," Colts coach Jim Caldwell said. "They just did it in a different way. They used as little bit more of a nickle front." Indianapolis totaled 341 yards (97 rushing). The Chiefs had one sack and one interception. "The Chiefs really came in and played a lot of eight-man [pass] coverage," Colts QB Peyton Manning said. "They really played a lot of pass coverage. They weren't willing to give you any free plays or big plays down the field."
Analysis: Only Minnesota and Kansas City had held each of their previous opponents to 14 points or fewer. The Chiefs nearly did it a fourth straight time against one of the league's highest-scoring offenses by forcing the Colts to settle for four field goals before Hart finally punched it in. Still, we got an answer about the Chiefs defense -- they are the real deal. They have held their own against the likes of the Colts and Chargers, two of the NFL's best offenses. It seems first-year coordinator Romeo Crennel is working his magic. Couple that with a productive return game and the Chiefs DST is probably a bit underowned at 39 percent. Consider the Chiefs DST a No. 2 option for Week 6 against the Texans.
News: Preparations for Week 5 against the Colts have begun and the Chiefs defense is already studying QB Peyton Manning. “Peyton keeps a lot of defensive players up at night,” ILB Derrick Johnson said. “Tremendous arm, smart guy, doesn’t make many mistakes. When he does make mistakes, we have to capitalize off it." He may be a target on Sunday, but rookie SS Eric Berry says the defense will work together to stop the Colts. “I have a great deal of confidence in guys like CB Brandon Flowers and LB Tamba Hali," Berry said. "LB Mike Vrabel has played a lot of games against them and our coordinator (Romeo Crennel) worked against them a lot.”
Analysis: Kansas City has really impressed in the first few weeks of the season under its new defensive coordinator -- Crennel. Kansas City is 14th in total defense (313.0 ypg) second in the league in scoring defense (12.7 ppg). Although, its greatest test will come in Week 5 against Manning, who is arguably one, if not the best QB in the NFL. The Colts are third in total offense (411.0 ypg), second in scoring offense (29.2 ypg) and second in passing offense (335.5 ypg). The Chiefs DST is averaging 15 Fantasy points per week, but Week 5 will tell us if they are for real or still have some work to do. You might consider looking to better matchups before settling on the Chiefs DST in Fantasy Week 5. Opposing DSTs are averaging just three Fantasy points per week against the Colts, which is worst in the NFL.
News: The Chiefs DST allowed just 251 yards and 10 points to the 49ers in a 31-10 Week 3 victory. They also racked up five sacks and picked off Alex Smith once.
Analysis: The Chiefs almost held the 49ers to three points Sunday, but San Francisco scored with the final play of the game. While they didn't extend their streak of scoring a defensive or special teams touchdown to three games, the Chiefs are looking like the real deal under Romeo Crennel. They'll have their work cut out for them in Week 5 following a bye when they play the Colts though, so Fantasy owners should probably look elsewhere in a couple of weeks.
News: Heading into their Week 3 matchup, the Chiefs defense is not underestimating the 49ers offense despite the team's 0-2 start. “They have some weapons now, some big playmakers like Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree, but especially Frank Gore," LB Derrick Johnson said. "He’s a stud. He’s a factor on every snap, whether as a runner or catching the ball. You have to account for him.” San Francisco is 11th in total offense (340.0 ypg) and tied for 24th in scoring (14.0 ppg).
Analysis: Kansas City might be ranked 24th in total defense (344.0 ypg), but it hasn't let an opponent score more than 14 points in its first two games and the Chiefs seems to be transitioning well under new defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel. Kansas City did well against a very good San Diego offense in Week 1, but it was helped by the bad weather. San Francisco will be just as tough as challenge with all its playmakers on offense. Look to the Chiefs DST as a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 3.
News: Kansas City held off the Cleveland Browns in Week 2 to win 16-14. The difference in the game was the defensive play by the Chiefs DST. The game's decisive play came in the second quarter when cornerback Brandon Flowers intercepted a pass from Seneca Wallace and took it 33 yards to the house for a defensive touchdown. The Chiefs DST limited Cleveland to 299 yards of total offense and just 13 first downs in the game. The Chiefs forced two turnovers as Jerome Harrison lost a fumble and Wallace threw that interception for a score. The Chiefs managed one sack of the shifty Wallace in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST scored a touchdown in the opening week as well as Dexter McCluster returned a punt for a score. That is two defensive touchdowns in as many weeks and that is awesome production from a unit that wasn't expected to do much this season. The Chiefs have forced three turnovers and picked up two sacks in two games. If it wasn't for the defensive touchdowns, the unit would not be doing too much Fantasy-point wise. They can't keep scoring touchdowns, can they? If you have a whim, go ahead and use them Week 3 against the 49ers. That is another game the 2-0 Chiefs can win.
News: Chiefs defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel knows what to expect if Browns QB Jake Delhomme (ankle) does not play and Seneca Wallace replaces him in Week 2. “Seneca has more running ability; you have to be more concerned about rush lanes and how you contain him,” Crennel said. "We can’t take chances.” Kansas City also can't afford to let RB Jerome Harrison run wild like he did last season against the Chiefs. Harrison totaled 286 rushing yards in a late season win against Kansas City. Crennel wasn't with Kansas City last season, but he watched the game tape all week. "It was embarrassing," Crennel said. "I don't want to be embarrassed on Sunday."
Analysis: Crennel was brought in to clean up the defense in 2010 and the team put together a pretty strong debut in Week 1 against the Chargers. Amid the rain, the Chiefs allowed just two touchdowns and 389 total yards. The Chiefs DST also got Fantasy points on Dexter McCluster's punt return for a touchdown. With McCluster and Javier Arenas in the return game that is where the Chiefs DST might pick up some extra Fantasy points in 2010. Since the Browns are expected to be playing with a backup QB, the Chiefs DST might be a sleeper start for Week 2. But the safe bet is to view them as a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Facing a much tougher offense in Week 1 against the Chargers on Monday night, the Chiefs DST fared pretty well considering. Kansas City pulled out the 21-14 victory, allowing 389 total yards on a windy and rainy night. The biggest play for the Chiefs DST came on a Dexter McCluster punt return for a touchdown. The defense had two sacks and four tackles for loss, including a fumble recovery. Week 2 brings a lesser opponent as the Chiefs head to Cleveland. The Tampa Bay defense managed three sacks of QB Jake Delhomme in Week 1 and the Chiefs sacked QB Philip Rivers twice in their game.
Analysis: With returners Javier Arenas and Dexter McCluster adding a whole lot of excitement to the Chiefs DST, Kansas City is always a threat for a return touchdown now. They also played well against a solid offensive team in the Chargers in Week 1 that will make the Browns in Week 2 look like a high school team. The Chiefs were impressive to start the year and we believe that is going to continue in Week 2. That said, the Chiefs DST did allow a season-high 351 rushing yards to the Browns Week 15 last season in a 41-34 loss. We expect better results this time around but the Chiefs DST is still not a unit that should be starting in Week 2.
News: The Chiefs held the Chargers to 14 points and 389 total yards in Week 1, but made a huge difference on special teams. After Javier Arenas had a 36-yard punt return that set up a score, rookie Dexter McCluster took a 94-yard punt to the house. "That's the longest of my career at any level," McCluster said. "What better time than that -- Monday night football in Arrowhead. You couldn't ask for a better time." The defense had two sacks and four tackles for loss in the 21-14 win.
Analysis: The Chiefs are not well known for their defense but are heading in the right direction.They showed improvement in the secondary and could have a surprisingly solid special teams this season. Fantasy owners should not start scrambling to pick up their DST just yet but keep an eye on the Chiefs as the season goes on.
News: After finishing 30th in total defense last season, the Chiefs will face a tough matchup in Week 1 against the Chargers. Kansas City's defense allowed 388.2 yards per game last year and finished 31st in rushing defense, allowing 156.5 ypg while only forcing 22 sacks. The Chargers finished ranked 10th in total offense in 2009, but will be without Vincent Jackson. The Chiefs drafted S Eric Berry to help out the secondary.
Analysis: The Chiefs got Romeo Crennel to be their defensive coordinator this season, meaning they will remain in their 3-4 scheme. The secondary should be better with the addition of Berry, but the Chiefs defensive line will still be a weakness this season. Unless they can do a better job stopping the run and getting to the quarterback, the Chiefs will most likely only make marginal improvements on defense this year. We do not recommend starting them in Week 1.
News:The Sports Xchange reports asked if there was anything specific he wants from the players who will participate in his defensive scheme this year, Chiefs coordinator Romeo Crennel was quick with his answer. "Guys who hit, who tackle, who have great effort to the football and who will play the technique the way we teach the technique," Crennel said. "Those guys are going to give us the best chance." Crennel has plenty of work ahead of himself in finding about 25 such players who can turn the Kansas City defense from one of the league's worst, to one of the league's better units. Last year, the Chiefs defense was 30th out of 32 teams in yards allowed and 31st in defending the run. "We're going to try to emphasize not letting them run the ball on us and if we can stop the run, that will help the passing game as well -- the pass rush and everything," Crennel said. "That's one of the things we're going to try and focus on and we've been talking about."
Analysis: In the 1990s under head coach Marty Schottenheimer and coordinators Bill Cowher, Dave Adolph and Gunther Cunningham, the Chiefs defense relied on forcing turnovers and sacking the quarterback. But in the past decade there has been a slow deterioration in defensive performance around the Chiefs. Once a feared pass rush they have just 32 sacks in the last two seasons. General manager Scott Pioli and head coach Todd Haley have handed Crennel a mediocre front line, a mixed bag at linebacker and a secondary with the potential to be very good. On the Chiefs training camp roster there are only four players on the defensive side of the ball that have reached their 30th birthday: OLB Mike Vrabel, ILB Demorrio Williams, NT Ron Edwards and S Jon McGraw. It's a young defensive unit looking for an identity, but Crennel is one of the best in the league at what he does, so they are in good hands. The Chiefs DST is more of a No. 2 option on Draft Day, but clearly they are a unit to watch.
News: Tennessee safety Eric Berry is expected to start right away in the Chiefs' secondary this season after being taken in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Berry is a playmaking safety with great coverage skills (some think he can play cornerback) and a nose for the football. Many people think Berry is the next Ed Reed, which is an amazing comparison. Berry ranked second on the Volunteers with 87 tackles (56 solo) while snagging two interceptions last year, playing consistently as a ballhawk and keeping the Volunteers' pass defense as one of the best in the country.
Analysis: Berry improves the Chiefs' pass defense right away and should figure to make some plays in the pass-happy AFC West. But until the team can develop a solid pass rush, they're not going to be any better than a one-week replacement option this season. Look for them off waivers.
News: Romeo Crennel has agreed to become defensive coordinator for the Chiefs, replacing Clancy Pendergast. Crennel's agent, Joe Linta, said Wednesday that the former Cleveland Browns coach will start his new job in a "couple of weeks." Crennel, who has been out of football for a year recovering from hip surgery, will coach in the East-West all-star game before joining the Chiefs and linking up with his old friend, Charlie Weis. The New England Patriots won three Super Bowls with Crennel as defensive coordinator and Weis as offensive coordinator. Last week, the Chiefs hired Weis as offensive coordinator after he was fired as head coach at Notre Dame.
Analysis: This ensures that the Chiefs will remain in the 3-4 scheme, and while Crennel's defense only had one decent year in Cleveland (2007), he is a good builder of defenses and should be able to cultivate some talent over the course of a couple of years. The Chiefs DST remains a low-end option not worth starting or drafting at this point.
News: The Chiefs defense struggled against the pass on Sunday against the Broncos, but did manage to intercept three Kyle Orton passes in a 44-24 Week 17 win. Derrick Johnson, who intercepted two of the passes, returned both of his picks for touchdowns. Orton finished the game with 431 passing yards, completing 32 of his 56 passes.
Analysis: Kansas City took advantage of some big plays in Week 17, which is really the only reason they had a rare respectable week. There is little reason to believe that the Chiefs DST will be much better in 2010, so continue to think of them as a low-end option on Draft Day.
News: The Chiefs limited the Bengals to 17 points and 274 yards in a Week 16 loss. They only forced one turnover however, and tallied just a single sack.
Analysis: Kansas City did a little better than expected on Sunday, but they're still a barely-usable Fantasy unit heading into Week 17 at Denver.
News: In the Chiefs' Week 15 loss vs. the Browns, the defense racked up a pair of Brady Quinn interceptions, and LB Andy Studebaker recovered a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST had a nice outing against the Browns, though they allowed a ton of points and yardage. Consider them a very low-end option for Week 16 when they play at the Bengals.
News: The Kansas City Chiefs limited the Buffalo Bills to just 273 yards of offense in Week 14. Of course, the Chiefs still ended up losing the game, 16-10. The Chiefs DST sacked Buffalo QB Ryan Fitzpatrick twice in the game and also intercepted him once. The Chiefs also forced Fitzpatrick to fumble and added another forced fumble when tight end Shawn Nelson coughed it up early in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST limited the yards and forced two turnovers with two sacks against the Bills in Week 14 but that still doesn't bring much Fantasy value. The unit remains one of the worst in the league and is not worth using in Week 15 against Cleveland.
News: The Chiefs DST allowed 44 points and 413 yards to the Broncos in Week 13. They did manage to produce three sacks, an interception and two fumble recoveries.
Analysis: While the turnovers on Sunday were nice, the Chiefs just gave up far too many point and yards to Denver. The unit remains one of the worst in the league and is not worth using in Week 14 vs. Buffalo.
News: Kansas City had few answers for the Chargers’ offense on Sunday in a Week 12 loss. The defense allowed 35 points in the game, including 28 points in the first half alone. Philip Rivers had a field day against the Chiefs’ secondary, throwing for 317 yards and two touchdowns on 21 of 28 passing. Billy Volek also completed a pass for 15 yards. On the ground, Ladainian Tomlinson led a rushing attack that accounted for 94 yards on 34 attempts and two touchdowns. The only turnover the Chiefs got was a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense had been performing a bit better of late, but certainly took a step backwards with a poor performance against a good Chargers offense. The Chiefs should have a bit of a better showing against the Broncos in Week 13. The Chiefs DST remains a low-end Fantasy unit.
News: The Chiefs got a 97-yard kickoff return from Jamaal Charles to start the game in Week 11 against Pittsburgh. They ultimately won the game 27-24 in overtime. The Chiefs allowed 515 total net yards of offense in the game, though they did force three turnovers and had three sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs' defense didn't have a great game as they were actually picked apart by Ben Roethlisberger for 398 yards. The turnovers and the kickoff were just able to balance those numbers and weren't much help to Fantasy owners. We don't recommend starting the Chiefs defense in the critical late stages of the season and that applies in Week 12 at San Diego.
News: The Chiefs defense was so good on Sunday against the Raiders, Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell was taken out of the game and replaced by backup Bruce Gradkowski who threw two second half interceptions. The two QBs combined for a 13 for 32 performance against the Chiefs’ defense, gaining 113 yards. On the ground, the Raiders gained 182 total yards, scoring one touchdown. The unit allowed 10 total points in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense is not one of the better units in the league, so their performance against the Raiders likely had more to do with how bad Oakland’s offense is than how well the Kansas City defense performed. The unit will likely get waxed by the Steelers’ offense in Week 11, making the Chiefs DST not a recommended option.
News: The Chiefs allowed 426 yards of total offense in Week 9 against Oakland. They gave up 24 points. They forced one turnover and recorded one sack in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense has been one to stay away from in Fantasy all season and that likely will not change down the stretch. They'll face a weak Raiders offense in Week 10, but remain a very risky play even as a bye-week replacement option.
News: The Kansas City Chiefs could be down to their third-team free safety at Jacksonville on Sunday. They're also working cornerbacks at the safety position to use in an emergency. The Chiefs (1-6) announced Tuesday that three-year starter Jarrad Page was going on injured reserve. But veteran Jon McGraw, who had started the past two games in Page's place, is also hobbled and may not play. That will bring DaJuan Morgan over from backup strong safety and may even give reserve cornerback Maurice Leggett some time at the spot. Leggett played some safety in college, so the position would not be new. "It's an area of concern, obviously, for us," coach Todd Haley said Wednesday. "But we've been cross-training some of those corners to be alert in emergency situations if we were to have something happen. But it's an area of concern right now. It will be tenuous to say the least as we go forward, at least for this week."
Analysis: Leggett, who signed with the Chiefs as a rookie free agent last year, made three starts at cornerback in 2008. He played safety for a time at Division II powerhouse Valdosta State. "He's gotten a bunch of reps," Haley said. "Being out there and actually running routes is a little different. But I feel like at least we're ahead of the curve with him and having a little foresight in the big picture to understand that one of those guys might have to play there at some point." That will leave Mike Brown as the only experienced safety. "We'll be OK. You only need two (safeties)," said Brown, the starting strong safety. "It does hurt losing Jarrad and Jon. They're very good players. But DaJuan is going to step in and play well. He's young and ready to play and got a little juice in him. He's excited. This is a great opportunity for him to show what he can do, to show the Chiefs fans what he's all about." The Chiefs might exude confidence despite losing some key players, but their defensive numbers tell the story of a trying season. It's safe to ignore the Chiefs DST in Fantasy until further notice.
News: The Chiefs allowed 403 yards of offense and 37 points in a Week 7 home loss to the Chargers. They did not record a sack or a turnover in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs have a very weak pass rush and they have allowed a ton of points and yards this season. The Chiefs defensive unit is owned in under 5 percent of CBSSports.com leagues and that likely won't change soon. The Chiefs are on a bye in Week 8 before returning to face the Jaguars in Jacksonville in Week 9.
News: Kansas City defeated the Washington Redskins in Week 6 in Washington. The Chiefs won the game 14-6. The Chiefs DST allowed just 265 yards in total to the Redskins in the win and forced Washington into committing two turnovers. The Chiefs picked up three sacks in the game. Kansas City also forced a safety as Tamba Hali tackled Todd Collins in the 4th quarter.
Analysis: The Chiefs became the third team to win their first game against the Redskins this season. They still did little to suggest that have a decent DST unit. The Chiefs play San Diego at home in Week 7. The Chargers will be able to run up the score.
News: The Chiefs had one sack and no other stats vs. the Cowboys in Week 5. They were burned by bad tackling on two long touchdown plays by WR Miles Austin, who had 250 yards receiving on 10 catches in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST shouldn't be considered anything more than a low-end option off waivers for Week 6 when they play at Washington.
News: The Raiders allowed 27 points and 482 net yards of offense in Week 4 against the Giants. They sacked QB Eli Manning twice and forced two turnovers.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense was ripped apart once again and Fantasy owners should not be surprised. But they weren't, which is why the Chiefs were not activated in even one percent of CBSSports.com leagues. The Chiefs face another tough offense in Week 5 against Dallas and are not a recommended unit in any league.
News: The Chiefs DST gave up 34 points and 420 yards to the Eagles in a Week 4 loss. They did manage to force a fumble, but didn't record a sack.
Analysis: Kansas City isn't a very good team and things won't get any easier in Week 4 when the Giants come to town. Continue to ignore K.C.'s DST in all Fantasy formats for that matchup.
News: The Chiefs DST had two sacks but not much else in Week 2 against the Raiders. Derrick Johnson had one sack, and Wallace Gilberry had the other. On special teams, Bobby Wade had six punt returns for 57 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST had a favorable matchup against the Raiders, but they don't have enough playmakers to be a good Fantasy option. Ignore the Chiefs in Week 3 at the Eagles.
News: In the Chiefs' Week 1 loss at the Ravens, the DST came up big. Not only did they register a sack, a forced fumble and an interception, but they also scored on a blocked punt.
Analysis: We didn't expect the Chiefs' defense to play well against the Ravens, and if you take away the touchdown, they didn't. They'll be a better option in Week 2 when they host the Raiders, but still not good enough to start in Fantasy play.
News: The Chiefs announced Friday that the club has signed its first-round draft pick DE Tyson Jackson. Jackson joined the Chiefs as the club's first-round selection (third overall) in the 2009 NFL Draft. He saw action in 53 contests (39 starts) at LSU, registering 122 tackles (55 solo), 18.5 sacks, 27 tackles for loss, two fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles and 18 passes defensed. He added 33 QB pressures and one interception. The Chiefs also waived LB Weston Dacus on Friday. Dacus played in eight games for Kansas City in 2008.
Analysis: Jackson is expected to help the Chiefs in their pass rush and is a rookie to keep an eye on in IDP leagues. Don't draft him just yet, but he could be worth adding off the waiver wire. Dacus should be ignored in all leagues.
News: The Kansas City Star reports that Chiefs head coach Todd Haley admitted Thursday that the club will not be a strict 3-4 defense, but they won't be a strict 4-3 defense, either. Instead, they're going to play both in 2009 as they ultimately transition to a 3-4 defense. The club certainly drafted with an eye toward the 3-4 scheme by taking DE Tyson Jackson in Round 1 and Alex Magee in Round 3. "We're going to try variations of it," Haley said. "We're not going to force square pegs in round holes. ... There are some variations that make it a little easier to transition into this thing. I knew right away it was going to be a process. You can't just say: 'We're going to do this.'"
Analysis: Last year, the Chiefs DST was atrocious. This year, there's hope for some improvement, but unless several role players step into superstar status, you won't want to own this unit. Consider them off the waiver wire as a one-week replacement when they have a good matchup.
News: NFL Network and the Boston Globe both report that the Patriots have traded LB Mike Vrabel to the Chiefs. Sirius NFL Radio reports the Chiefs will give an undisclosed draft pick for him. Vrabel was in Kansas City on Friday taking a physical and confirmed that he had been traded. Vrabel had 62 total tackles, four sacks, an interception, four passes defensed and a forced fumble for New England last year and had 12.5 sacks and two touchdowns as an offensive player in 2007.
Analysis: Vrabel will be a leader in the Kansas City defense and likely signals that this unit will line up in the 3-4 scheme. This hurts the Patriots DST more than helps the Chiefs DST because Vrabel's chances to post good numbers dwindle with him in Kansas City, and the Patriots have a hole to fill in replacing him. The Chiefs remain a No. 3 DST while the Patriots, by virtue of their good defense and solid special teams, are still a middle- to low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: The Chiefs defense is expected to be run by ex-Cardinals defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast in 2009, who was hired by Kansas City but wasn't officially named the new defensive boss. Pendergast spent the past five years as defensive coordinator with Arizona (2004-08), whose defense got hot late in the season and helped push the team to its first-ever Super Bowl appearance. It's expected that the club will remain in a 4-3 base scheme.
Analysis: The move doesn't exactly evoke potential or promise for the Chiefs DST, but they'll have a new lease on their game with Pendergast calling the shots. The club needs so much help on defense that any improvements they make in 2009 will be surprising unless they break the bank on talent this offseason (they could bring in a number of cost-effective vets to help speed up the improvement). Ultimately, the Chiefs DST is no better than a No. 3 unit not worth drafting.
News: Herm Edwards, the head coach of the Chiefs during the worst two-year span in team history, was fired Friday. Edwards goes out with a three-year regular-season record of 15-33. Edwards had been waiting to learn his fate since president and general manager Carl Peterson abruptly resigned on Dec. 15. When Scott Pioli was introduced as Peterson's successor on Jan. 13, he was noncommittal and said only that he intended to speak with Edwards. "After careful consideration, Clark and I felt that it was best to make a change," Pioli said.
Analysis: After Edwards and Peterson launched a full-fledged rebuilding project in 2008, youth and injury led to a 2-14 record and a distressful two-year tally of 6-26 that cost both men their jobs. Particularly embarrassing to Edwards was a defense that managed only 10 sacks this season (five in two games against the Chargers), gave up a team-record 332 yards rushing in one game and a team-record 54 points in another. With Pioli, who has Patriots roots, in charge of hiring the next coach and building the team, expect to see a 3-4 front in Kansas City soon. This DST remains a No. 3 option not worth using in 2009.
News: The Chiefs DST gave up 16 points and 329 yards to the Bengals in a Week 17 loss. They did not force a turnover.
Analysis: The Chiefs were pretty much unusable in Fantasy play this season, and that isn't likely to change much in 2009. Do not draft them in any format.
News: The Chiefs DST gave up 38 points and 403 yards to the Dolphins in a Week 16 loss. They only made one interception and did not manage to sack Chad Pennington.
Analysis: The Chiefs have never been a Fantasy-viable option this season, and Sunday showed why. In Week 17, Kansas City does visit the horrid Bengals, but both of those DST units should be avoided.
News: In the Chiefs' 22-21 loss vs. the Chargers in Week 15, their DST wasn't so bad, totaling three sacks, an interception and four forced fumbles. The Chargers have given up five of K.C.'s NFL-worst nine sacks this year.
Analysis: Since the Chiefs won't be facing Philip Rivers again this season, you can't count on their DST until Week 17 when they play at Cincinnati. In Week 16, they play vs. the Dolphins, not a great matchup. Consider other options at DST.
News: The Chiefs gave up 24 points and 425 yards of offense in Week 14 against Denver. They did score a defensive touchdown when Maurice Leggett returned an interception 27 yards for a touchdown. It was the only turnover in the game. The Chiefs did not have a sack.
Analysis: Most Fantasy owners did not get a chance to take advantage of the defensive score, and for good reason. The Chiefs are 2-11 this season and have been giving up yards and points all year without providing many sacks or turnovers. Do not start them in a Fantasy playoff scenario for Week 15 against San Diego. This is two straight weeks with a DTD, but don't read too much into that.
News: The Chiefs held Oakland to just one offensive touchdown -- a 1-yard run by Justin Fargas -- and defeated the Raiders 20-13 Week 13. Kansas City limited Oakland to 271 yards, including 132 through the air. The Chiefs forced three fumbles and recovered two -- including a 67-yard return for a touchdown by Maurice Leggett on a botched fake field goal. Kansas Cuty got no sacks and no interceptions.
Analysis: The Chiefs haven't had too many impressive defensive performances in 2008, so you know they will savior what they accomplished Week 13 even if it was against an inferior team. Kansas City will have a tough time with the Broncos' offense Week 14, so the Chiefs DST is not a recommended Fantasy option.
News: In the Chiefs' 54-31 loss vs. the Bills in Week 12, the DST unit did very little to help Fantasy owners. How little? How about one forced fumble? That's all, folks. The Bills threw for 273 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 171 yards and three touchdowns.
Analysis: The Chiefs play at the Raiders in Week 13. Even with Oakland's offense a joke around league circles (though they may not be considered as such after their Week 12 win), owners can surely find better DST options off the waiver wire than this one.
News: The Chiefs DST had an interception but no sacks or fumble recoveries Sunday against New Orleans. Dantrell Savage had five kickoff returns for 103 yards, and Kevin Robinson had two punt returns for 19 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST has minimal Fantasy value and should not be used in Week 12 against Buffalo.
News: Once again, the injury-ravaged Chiefs are scouring the landscape for usable, unemployed professional football players. They're in the market for linebackers and cornerbacks. Coach Herman Edwards said linebackers Derrick Johnson and Pat Thomas and defensive end Brian Johnston are all out for this week's game against New Orleans. Questionable are defensive ends Tamba Hali and Turk McBride, cornerbacks Patrick Surtain and Brandon Flowers and safety DaJuan Morgan.
Analysis: You probably weren't using the Chiefs DST in Week 11 anyway, but this onslaught of injuries certainly makes them less appealing. Consider other options at DST.
News: The Chiefs allowed 400 yards of total offense in Week 10 at San Diego. They gave up 20 points and forced two turnovers -- both interceptions. They also added two sacks.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense is only owned in three percent of leagues and for good reason. They give up a ton of yards each week and don't offer much in the way of turnovers or sacks. Don't even think about using them in Week 11 against a tough Saints offense.
News: The Chiefs gave up 30 points on 423 yards against the Buccaneers in Week 9. They recorded an interception and recovered three fumbles.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST didn't record a sack, but it has only four all season. It gives up plenty of yardage and points on a week-to-week basis and remains one of the worst units for Fantasy purposes. Leave it on waivers for Week 10 at San Diego.
News: The highlight of Week 8's loss to the New York Jets came in the 4th quarter when CB Brandon Flowers intercepted his second pass of the game and took it 91 yards back for a touchdown that temporarily game the Chiefs the lead. The Jets won the game 28-24, however, and the Chiefs DST allowed 420 yards to Brett Favre and New York. The Jets turned the ball over three times and Jarrad Page picked up the other interception. Tamba Hali earned the only sack of Favre on the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs clearly have one of the worst run defenses in the NFL, and if you can't stop the run, you usually can't stop anything. Don't bother with the Chiefs DST in Fantasy even when it has a good matchup, which it doesn't have in Week 9 vs. Tampa Bay.
News: The Chiefs defense looked virtually nonexistent against the Titans in Week 7. It gave up 34 points on 455 yards -- including 332 rushing -- without record a sack or an interception.
Analysis: The Chiefs clearly have one of the worst run defenses in the NFL, and if you can't stop the run, you usually can't stop anything. Don't bother with the Chiefs DST in Fantasy even when it has a good matchup, which it doesn't Week 8 against the Jets.
News: RB DeAngelo Williams had 123 yards rushing and scored three touchdowns and the Panthers handed the Kansas City Chiefs their first shutout in nearly six years, 34-0 Week 5. The Kansas City defense was run over for 441 yards, including 205 on the ground. They didn't sack QB Jake Delhomme once, but did get an interception and fumble recovery.
Analysis: It has been a very bad season for the Chiefs defense. Even in Kansas City's one win this season against the Broncos, Denver still managed 400-plus yards. They can't seem to stop anyone at this time and injuries have also hurt them. Until the Chiefs improve defensively, it's safe to ignore the Chiefs DST. Kansas City is off until Week 7 against the Titans.
News: Kansas City earned its first victory of the season on Sunday in Week 4 against the previously unbeaten Denver Broncos, 33-19. The Chiefs DST still allowed 446 yards and only recorded one sack -- Brian Johnston. Kansas City did force four turnovers, however, as Derrick Johnson and Brandon Carr both recorded interceptions. Carr also recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Chiefs held Brandon Marshall and Jay Cutler in check all day and for that, plus the victory, they need to be commended. We're happy they were able to secure their first victory, but that said, they don't figure to pick up too many more. The Chiefs will struggle this year and for that are not a recommended Fantasy DST. Don't start them in Week 5 at Carolina.
News: Two of the few veteran defensive players on the rookie-laden Chiefs roster will be sidelined with injury Week 4 against the Broncos. Coach Herm Edwards said linebacker Donnie Edwards would be out with an ankle problem and replaced by Demorrio Williams. Cornerback Patrck Surtain will miss a second straight start with a shoulder injury, meaning the Chiefs will start two rookie cornerbacks against a Denver offense averaging 38 points and more than 430 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense allowed RB Michael Turner to score three times and the Falcons to total five touchdowns in a 38-14 Week 3 loss. Atlanta posted 378 total yards, including 186 on the ground. The Chiefs fell to 0-3 on the season and Fantasy owners need to get used to seeing this. It's going to be a very long season for Kansas City and the Chiefs DST is not a recommended Fantasy option heading into Week 4 against the Broncos.
News: The Chiefs defense allowed RB Michael Turner to score three times and the Falcons to total five touchdowns in a 38-14 Week 3 loss. Atlanta posted 378 total yards, including 186 on the ground. The Chiefs got no sacks, one fumble recovery on a botched punt return and no interceptions in the loss.
Analysis: The Chiefs fell to 0-3 on the season and Fantasy owners need to get used to seeing this. It's going to be a very long season for Kansas City and the Chiefs DST is not a recommended Fantasy option heading into Week 4 against the Broncos.
News: The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that with Chiefs CB Patrick Surtain sidelined with a shoulder injury, the club will start two rookies -- Brandon Carr and Brandon Flowers -- at cornerback at the Falcons in Week 3. "We anticipated this might happen sometime this year," Edwards said of playing two rookie corners. "This makes us the youngest secondary in the league (with two third-year safeties), but the good part is, these guys will be playing together for a long time."
Analysis: It goes without saying that the Chiefs DST is in awful shape for Week 3 (and pretty much every week). Leave them on the waiver wire.
News: The Kansas City Chiefs will start two rookie cornerbacks Sunday at Atlanta, a potentially troubling situation that coach Herm Edwards insists will not cost him one minute's sleep. "Not at all. Not those two kids," Edwards said Tuesday. On one side will be Brandon Flowers, who was handed the starting job as soon as he was drafted in the second round in April out of Virginia Tech. Replacing 11-year veteran Patrick Surtain, who injured his shoulder last week against Oakland, will be fifth-round pick Brandon Carr. This time last year Carr was patrolling the secondary for Division II Grand Valley State, preparing for the NFL by facing Ashland, Hillsdale and Ferris State. Career interception numbers also underscore how young Kansas City will be on the corner. Surtain, who may be out next week as well, has 36. Carr and Flowers between them are still looking for their first. Nevertheless, Edwards said there's no reason to panic. "I anticipated this was going to happen eventually anyway. Now it's come to fruition," he said.
Analysis: Neither Flowers nor Carr are considered viable Fantasy IDP players at DB since they aren't expected to pick up many tackles. The Chiefs DST will obviously suffer, but wasn't considered a top option anyway. They should be avoided in Fantasy Week 3 as the Chiefs take on Atlanta in Georgia.
News: The Chiefs defense did a great job holding Raiders QB JaMarcus Russel to just 55 passing yards on 6 of 17 completions Week 2. However, they struggled against the run as Oakland racked up 300 yards on the ground in a 24-8 rout of Kansas City. The Chiefs forced two turnovers on fumbles, but got no interceptions and no sacks.
Analysis: The Chiefs were going up against a pretty weak offensive team, but made the Raiders look like AFC West contenders. It could be a very long season for the Chiefs. They do play the Falcons in Week 3, but the Chiefs DST remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Chiefs DST was good for two sacks, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries in their 17-10 loss at New England in Week 1.
Analysis: The Chiefs host the Raiders in Week 2 at home, which makes them a decent sleeper option for the coming week. If you're in need of a DST option off the waiver wire, consider them.
News: Making his debut in Week 1, and no doubt presenting a tempting target, will be Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers, who might draw WR Randy Moss as his assignment. Another rookie cornerback, Brandon Carr, will probably be the nickel back. On the defensive line, the Chiefs will count on first-round pick Glenn Dorsey to help make up the difference for the loss of DE Jared Allen. Flowers admits to a few butterflies when he watched film of the high-powered wide receivers who'll baptize him into the NFL. "It's a challenge I'm willing to take on," Flowers said. "Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Tom Brady. Top of the game right now. What a better way to start a season, see where I'm at. I think I'll be ready. I like to take on challenges."
Analysis: Suffice to say, don't count on the Chiefs DST in Week 1 at New England. Just about every other DST option is better.
News: The Chiefs defense was missing three key players for Saturday’s third preseason game at Miami. LB Napoleon Harris, LB Donnie Edwards and LB Demorrio WIlliams are all dealing with injuries and have been limited in practice. Harris has been out with a knee injury, and Edwards is dealing with hamstring problems. Williams recently broke his hand and is out for the rest of the preseason. He will be ready for the season opener, but the status of Edwards and Harris is in doubt. The Chiefs totaled an interception and forced fumble in the game.
Analysis: Even with Harris, Edwards and Williams healthy, the Chiefs DST is not worth drafting in most seasonal leagues. But Edwards is a low-end No. 2 LB in IDP leagues, and Harris and Williams are low-end reserve options.
News: The Kansas City Star reports Chiefs LB Pat Thomas joined the team last year after 31 teams passed on him and he cleared waivers. But Thomas, for now at least, is the Chiefs' starting middle linebacker. The Chiefs had been rotating Napoleon Harris and Thomas, but Thomas received all of the first-team snaps Tuesday afternoon, the only full-team practice of the day. The Chiefs were disappointed in Harris, and indicated Demorrio Williams might start at one outside linebacker position with Donnie Edwards moving into the middle. But Williams has yet to play with the starters.
Analysis: Keep an eye on the winner of this battle because Thomas or Harris could be a useful low-end LB in IDP leagues depending on who wins the job. Don't draft Williams in any leagues at this point, and the Chiefs DST is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: With the fifth overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, the Chiefs took LSU DT Glenn Dorsey, who is expected to fit in right away in their defensive line in the Cover-2 scheme. Dorsey was a huge key to LSU's recent successes and should be a building block in Kansas City for a long time.
Analysis: Dorsey will help free up Chiefs DE Tamba Hali to land some big stats and is nice way to rebound after trading DE Jared Allen to Minnesota. The Chiefs' D-line will still struggle some, particularly early on in 2008, but the whole DST won't be any better than a low-end No. 2 option in Fantasy play. Don't draft them this summer.
News: The Chiefs reportedly have traded Pro Bowl defensive end Jared Allen to the Vikings. Citing a source, the Kansas City Star reported that Allen went to Minnesota on Tuesday night to sign a six-year contract worth just under $74 million with more than $31 million guaranteed, the most ever for a defensive player. The Chiefs are expected to get the Vikings' first-round pick (No. 17) and both the Vikings' third-round selections (73rd and 82nd). It would give the Chiefs six picks in the first 82 players in this weekend's draft and 13 total. NFL Network also confirms the trade. Allen led the NFL last season with 15 1/2 sacks.
Analysis: Without Allen, Kansas City's defensive line will be much easier for opponents to control, and QBs can rest a little easier. Figure the Chiefs DST to be no better than a low-end No. 2 option in 2008. You might want them as a bye-week replacement, but that's about it.
News: Chiefs DE Jared Allen left Minnesota without a contract on Sunday after spending two days with the club. Moreover, the Vikings and Chiefs are reportedly off on terms of a trade that would bring Allen to the Twin Cities. Allen may now entertain a trip to Tampa Bay, the other club interested in dealing for him before the 2008 draft. Allen is the Chiefs' franchised free-agent DE and is not free to sign anywhere without the club giving Kansas City compensation.
Analysis: Allen has said earlier this offseason that if he were to return to Kansas City in 2008 under the franchise tag that he wouldn't re-sign following '08. With him, the Chiefs have a fierce 1-2 D-line punch with Allen and Tamba Hali, enough to put them on the map as a quality bye-week replacement DST unit. Without him, Kansas City's defensive line will be much easier for opponents to control. Figure the Chiefs DST to be no better than a No. 2 option in 2008. The Vikings DST, meanwhile, would probably crack the top of the DST rank list with Allen on board.
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that the Vikings and Chiefs are in deep negotiations in a trade that would bring franchised DE Jared Allen to Minnesota. Allen is in town with his agent visiting the club and the two have reportedly have spent a lot of time there, perhaps suggesting that they're talking long-term deal. Allen might wind up being the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL. Rumors involving compensation for Allen have suggested the Vikes' first-round pick in the 2008 draft or franchise left tackle Bryant McKinnie.
Analysis: Allen has said earlier this offseason that if he were to return to Kansas City in 2008 under the franchise tag that he wouldn't re-sign following '08. With him, the Chiefs have a fierce 1-2 D-line punch with Allen and Tamba Hali, enough to put them on the map as a quality bye-week replacement DST unit. Without him, Kansas City's defensive line will be much easier for opponents to control. Figure the Chiefs DST to be no better than a No. 2 option in 2008. The Vikings DST, meanwhile, would probably crack the top of the DST rank list with Allen on board.
News: NFL Network reports that the Chiefs are dangling DE Jared Allen for teams to consider since the two sides cannot agree on a contract extension. Allen is currently franchised by the Chiefs. The report added that the Vikings and Buccaneers have emerged as potential suitors for Allen's services. Allen had 15.5 sacks last season for K.C.
Analysis: It is expected that Allen will fetch at least a first-round pick on the open market. Allen has said earlier this offseason that if he were to return to Kansas City in 2008 under the franchise tag that he wouldn't re-sign following '08. With him, the Chiefs have a fierce 1-2 D-line punch with Allen and Tamba Hali, enough to put them on the map as a quality bye-week replacement DST unit. Without him, Kansas City's defensive line will be much easier for opponents to control. Figure the Chiefs DST to be no better than a No. 2 option in 2008.
News: The Chiefs agreed to contract terms with LB Demorrio Williams on Saturday night. The contract is for five years, worth $16 million and contains $5.5 million in guaranteed money. Williams, 27, played all four of his NFL seasons with the Falcons. He is a three-year starter at outside LB. Williams will likely join Derrick Johnson in the starting lineup at outside LB with Donnie Edwards moving to middle LB. Napoleon Harris will lose his starting spot. The Chiefs signed Harris as a free agent last year to be their starting middle LB, but they were disappointed in his play.
Analysis: Williams had 78 total tackles, no sacks, two interceptions and two passes defensed in 2007. He should be considered a late-round flier in IDP leagues and hopefully his play can improve with his new team. His signing will improve Kansas City's defense, and Harris will lose Fantasy value moving to the bench.
News: NFL.com reports that Chiefs DE Jared Allen, scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent this offseason, had the franchise designation placed on him by the club. As a result, the team has tendered him an offer for a one-year guaranteed deal worth the average of the five highest-paid players at his position ($8.88 million according to NFL.com). Allen may accept the offer at any time, or he can negotiate with other teams. If another team were to make him a contract offer, the Chiefs would have the right to match the offer or receive two first-round picks as compensation from the other team. "If I play under the franchise tag, this will be my last year with the Chiefs," Allen told NFL.com at the Pro Bowl. "I would like to be a part of (the team) but there is a business aspect of this, too."
Analysis: The Chiefs DST didn't play well in 2007, down in interceptions (14), defensive fumbles (eight), forced fumbles (13) and defensive touchdowns (one) with a safety. The club needs to get younger, which is why they're holding on to Allen and letting go of other defenders (CB Ty Law is expected to be shown the door). With Allen, they'll still have a strong pass rush, but they're still not expected to be anything better than a No. 2 DST in 2008.
News: The Chiefs DST didn't play well in 2007 compared to recent years. They were down in interceptions (14), defensive fumbles (eight), forced fumbles (13) and defensive touchdowns (one). They did have one safety for the first time in the past five seasons. Heading into 2008, the Chiefs could be in trouble if DL Jared Allen leaves as a free agent. Kansas City does have solid defensive backs in Ty Law and Patrick Surtain, although they are getting old, and Donnie Edwards leads the linebacker corps, but he's also an aging veteran. On special teams, the Chiefs missed Dante Hall, who was traded to St. Louis. Eddie Drummond replaced Hall and had 32 punt returns for a 6.9-yard average and 37 kickoff returns for a 21.2-yard average.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST has minimal Fantasy value heading into 2008. Resigning Allen is a must because he led the NFL with 15.5 sacks, which was almost half of Kansas City's total. Keep an eye on what develops, but they should be considered a No. 2 option in 2008 at DST and ST.
News: The Chiefs held the Jets to 13 points and 337 yards of total offense in a Week 17 overtime loss. They recorded three sacks, but did not force any turnovers.
Analysis: The Chiefs didn't give up a ton of yards or points in 2008, but they weren't very active in the turnover or sack categories. They will be a low-end Fantasy unit in 2008.
News: The Chiefs allowed 236 yards of offense and 25 points in Week 16 at Detroit. They forced one turnover and had two sacks.
Analysis: The Chiefs have not been a very useful defensive unit in Fantasy this season and Fantasy owners should leave them on the waiver wire for Week 17 at the Jets.
News: The Chiefs allowed 26 points and 327 yards of offense in Week 15 vs. Tennessee. They did not force a turnover and had one sack in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs are not an adequate defensive Fantasy unit and are not a recommended start at this stage of the Fantasy season. In Week 16, they'll travel to Detroit.
News: The Chiefs DST allowed the Broncos to rack up 41 points and 453 yards while not forcing a turnover and tallying only one sack in Kansas City's 41-7 loss to Denver in Week 14.
Analysis: The Chiefs were just plain awful from the first whistle on Sunday afternoon as Jay Cutler torched them for four touchdown passes. Things get a little easier in Week 15 for K.C., but certainly wouldn't recommend starting them against the Titans.
News: The Broncos will host the Chiefs DST in a divisional battle in Week 13. The Broncos are ranked 27th offensively, including ninth in the passing game and 31st on the ground.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is ranked ninth in total defense (including seventh against the pass). But even so, we don't recommend starting the Chiefs DST for this matchup outside of larger leagues.
News: The Chiefs DST had one interception Sunday against San Diego with three sacks. They had five kickoff returns for 77 yards and three punt returns for 41.1 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is a low-end No. 1 option and should only be used in deep Fantasy leagues in Week 14 at Denver.
News: The Chiefs DST will host San Diego in Week 13. The Chargers are ranked 21st in total offense, including 17th in the air and on the ground.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST ranks 10th in total defense, including ninth against the pass and 18th against the run. This unit allowed just 16 points to the Chargers in Week 4, but San Diego has since fixed their offense. We still recommend using the Chiefs DST in leagues with more than 10 teams.
News: The Chiefs DST totaled two sacks and a forced fumble while getting run over by RB Justin Fargas vs. the Raiders in Week 12.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST should be better than this statistically, but since they're not, keep them on your bench or waiver wire in most leagues. They host the Chargers in Week 13.
News: On the road against the vaunted Colts offense in Week 11, the Chiefs defense coming up strong, limiting Peyton Manning and company to 13 points on 216 yards. It also picked up two sacks and an interception. The Chiefs special teams, meanwhile, had 74 yards.
Analysis: If you were crazy enough to start the Chiefs DST, you ended up making a great play. That's the crazy, mixed-up world of Fantasy football for you. The Chiefs DST has another great matchup against the Raiders in Week 12, so consider starting it again as a low-end option in Fantasy.
News: Kansas City travels to Indianapolis to face the Colts and their third-ranked offense Sunday in Week 11. Peyton Manning is running the sixth-best passing offense, and Joseph Addai is part of the ninth-ranked rushing offense.
Analysis: Manning has only been sacked 10 times this year, and he has thrown 10 interceptions. The Chiefs DST is ranked 13th in total defense (19th against the pass and 17th against the run). We don't recommend starting this DST unit for this tough matchup.
News: The Chiefs DST was good for a safety, one sack, one interception and two forced fumbles vs. Denver in Week 10. They also allowed Selvin Young to run for over 100 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is a big no-no next week when they play at Indianapolis. Don't even think about starting the Chiefs in Week 11.
News: The Chiefs host Denver in an AFC West showdown Sunday in Week 10. The Broncos are coming off a near-shutout a week ago to Detroit, and now they face an even tougher defense. Denver ranks 10th in total offense (12th through the air and 13th on the ground).
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is one to consider in 12-team leagues for this matchup. QB Jay Cutler (ankle) and RB Travis Henry (knee) are banged up and the Chiefs have forced seven turnovers in their past three games.
News: The Chiefs DST had two interceptions Sunday against Green Bay and one sack. Eddie Drummond had two punt returns for 14 yards and six kickoff returns for 126 yards. Turk McBride had one kickoff return for 6 yards, and Benny Sapp also had one kickoff return for 11 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST could be a nice sleeper option for Week 10 against Denver, especially if Jay Cutler is hurt. Cutler left Week 10 against Detroit.
News: Green Bay travels to Kansas City to face the Chiefs DST Sunday. The Packers are ranked ninth in total offense, mostly on the strength of QB Brett Favre's second-ranked passing unit. They have allowed only 12 sacks and he has thrown just six interceptions so far.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is ranked 11th in the NFL, including 10th against the pass and 17th against the run. This is a tough matchup and Fantasy owners should be able to do better than the Chiefs DST in 12-team leagues.
News: Kansas City is on a bye in Week 8 before they face Green Bay in Week 9 at Arrowhead Stadium.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST ranks 10th in total defense, including ninth against the pass and 17th against the run. They have registered 21 sacks, thanks mostly to DE Jared Allen's pass rush, and they have emerged as a decent DST in 12-team formats.
News: The Chiefs allowed just 10 points and 268 yards in Week 7 at Oakland. They forced two turnovers and had two sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST has been a very erratic unit this season and they won't be of any use in Week 8 when the team is on a bye week. In Week 9, the Chiefs will face Green Bay in an unfavorable matchup.
News: Kansas City travels to play at Oakland in a divisional matchup in Week 7. The Raiders rank 20th in total offense (29th through the air and an impressive third on the ground). The Raiders have rebounded strongly on the offensive line, and they have allowed 16 sacks, which is a big drop from what they did last year, when they allowed a league-high 72 sacks after 16 games.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST ranks 10th overall (seventh against the pass and 20th against the run). They have 19 sacks and seven interceptions. The Chiefs allowed a total of just 22 points in two games against the Raiders last year, but this team is much different. Consider starting the Chiefs DST in larger Fantasy leagues this week.
News: The Chiefs collected four sacks and two interceptions Week 6 against the Bengals. They allowed 20 points on 373 yards. Their special teams gained 82 yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST entered the game as the 10th-ranked defense in football. It makes a decent bye-week replacement and deserves starting consideration in Week 7 when the Chiefs visit the Raiders.
News: Kansas City plays Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday. The Bengals are the fourth-best offense in total yardage in the NFL, and the Chiefs are 10th in total defense.
Analysis: The Chiefs' fifth-ranked passing defense will be tested by Carson Palmer and Co. This Chiefs DST is a safe unit to sit for Week 6.
News: The Chiefs DST totaled four sacks while holding the Jaguars to 17 points in Week 5 play. That's all the Chiefs could come up with against the game-management offense of the Jaguars.
Analysis: The Chiefs host the Bengals in Week 6. Even though they'll be home and pick up a couple of sacks, expect them to give up a lot of yards and points. Don't use them unless you don't have a choice next week.
News: The Chiefs DST rank third in total defense this week, and they face the Jacksonville Jaguars at Arrowhead Stadium in Week 5.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is not as good as this ranking. Start them in larger leagues only against a Jaguars team that is also searching for their identity. The Chiefs should be able to get a few sacks though.
News: The Chiefs defense did allow All-Pro running back LaDainian Tomlinson to score an early touchdown and rack up more than 100 rushing yards in a Week 4 showdown, but kept the Chargers to 16 points on 333 yards. The Chiefs were swarming around the ball all day, forcing four turnovers -- two fumbles and two interceptions -- and sacking QB Philip Rivers once. The Chiefs defense also put the game away with a 50-yard fumble return for a touchdown by rookie DB Tyron Brackenridge in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense is better than some people give them credit. They don't really allow teams to run all over them, but some weeks will get caught watching from the sidelines. It appeared that way early Week 4, but the Chiefs buckled down to shut out the Chargers in the second half. Kansas City plays Jacksonsville in Week 5, so it might be time to use the Chiefs DST as a bye-week replacement.
News: The Chiefs DST is not doing too bad from a Fantasy standpoint. They have 10 sacks, three interceptions and three forced fumbles so far through three games.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST will travel to San Diego in Week 4, which is certainly a daunting matchup when LaDainian Tomlinson is involved. This isn't the week to start their surprising unit.
News: The Chiefs defense welcomed back DL Jared Allen Week 3 against the Vikings after he was forced to sit out two games because of a league-imposed suspension. His impact was immediately felt. Allen recorded two sacks and the Chiefs brought down QB Kelly Holcomb a total of five times during a 13-10 win. The Vikings managed just 252 yards and lost a fumble.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense is better than some people give them credit for, and now they have Allen back, they become an even better unit. Treat the Chiefs as a No. 2 Fantasy DST heading into Week 4 against the Chargers, but there is a lot of potential here.
News: The Chiefs got back DE Jared Allen from the suspension list. He had missed the first two games for violating the NFL's Substance Abuse Policy. Coach Herm Edwards put him right back on the first team when the Chiefs returned to practice Wednesday. "He's been working out, and he was refreshed," Edwards said. "We'll see how much stamina he has."
Analysis: Allen should help the Chiefs defense, but not enough to make them a startable Fantasy DST. They're at best a sleeper unit when they host Minnesota in Week 3.
News: The Bears amassed 239 yards and 20 points against the Chiefs defense during a Week 2 showdown. The Chiefs allowed 107 rushing yards and 132 passing yards. They picked off QB Rex Grossman twice and sacked him three times.
Analysis: The Chiefs aren't a very strong defensive team, but they did a nice job against a poor quarterback in Grossman. They might get a similar matchup in Week 3 against the Vikings. They will either face first-year starter Tarvaris Jackson or backup Brooks Bollinger. Jackson left Week 2 with an injury and his status for the upcoming week is not yet known. Consider the Chiefs a possible sleeper Fantasy DST for Week 3.
News: The Chiefs allowed 20 points and 315 yards of offense in Week 1 at Houston. Donnie Edwards and Alfonso Boone each sacked QB Matt Schaub once and Jarrad Page picked up an interception. Edwards also recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST isn't at this time a unit we recommend in Fantasy play, and a Week 2 matchup at Chicago doesn't make us want to change that.
News: The Chiefs agreed to terms with second-round pick DT Claude "Turk" McBride and third round pick DT DeMarcus "Tank" Tyler. Both defensive linemen will be in training camp on time.
Analysis: McBride and Tyler are part of an overhauled defense in Kansas City, complete with new LBs Napoleon Harris and Donnie Edwards. Expect the Chiefs DST to be a No. 2 unit, worth a look when they have a good matchup as a bye-week replacement. Just keep in mind that they no longer have Dante Hall returning kicks, and that DE Jared Allen will sit for two games.
News: Defensive tackle Ryan Sims, the sixth overall pick in the 2002 draft, was traded by Kansas City to Tampa Bay Tuesday for an undisclosed draft choice. Sims was a huge disappointment with the Chiefs, often overweight and often injured. The Chiefs also released defensive end Eric Hicks on Tuesday, three days after taking defensive lineman Claude "Turk" McBride in the second round of the NFL draft. Hicks, who made the Chiefs' roster as an undrafted free agent out of Maryland in 1998, has appeared in 128 games with 104 starts over nine seasons.
Analysis: Neither defender impacts the Chiefs DST unit's Fantasy value. The club did make some additions at linebacker with Donnie Edwards and Napoleon Harris, but they'll lose DE Jared Allen to a suspension to start the season. Consider them a strong No. 2 option well worth using as a bye-week replacement.
News: The Kansas City Star reports that Chiefs DE Jared Allen will be suspended four games in 2007 for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Allen has been charged twice in the last year with driving under the influence of alcohol. "I'm sorry my actions of last year will affect my teammates, coaches and fans," Allen said. "I have definitely learned from my mistakes and am glad to finally put this entire thing behind me once and for all. I will be with the Chiefs this year and will do everything I can to help bring a championship back to the great fans of KC."
Analysis: Allen has been a beast for the Chiefs, totaling 27 1/2 sacks in three years. Without him for the first four games, Kansas City will be hard-pressed to find a pass rusher to go opposite Tamba Hali. Their DST has lost Dante Hall but have added considerable talent at linebacker with Donnie Edwards and Napoleon Harris. Consider them a strong No. 2 option well worth using as a bye-week replacement.
News: The Rams have traded a fifth-round pick to the Chiefs in exchange for WR/KR Dante Hall. Hall is considered an excellent returner on special teams and can be used as a slot receiver as well. "We have filled a need with one of the top players in football at his specialty, returning punts and kicks," said Rams head coach Scott Linehan in a statement. "Dante will fit in nicely on our special teams and can be utilized as a receiver in certain situations."
Analysis: Last year, Hall was icing on the cake for the Chiefs DST unit, making them one of the more desirable starting options. Without him, they slip a little bit. Consider the Chiefs DST a strong No. 2 option well worth using as a bye-week replacement.
News: The Kansas City Chiefs resigned veteran defensive tackle James Reed to a three-year contract on Tuesday. Reed, a free agent, started 15 games for Kansas City in 2006, including the Chiefs' 23-8 playoff loss to the Indianapolis Colts. The former seventh-round pick out of Iowa State had 42 tackles, 10 quarterback pressures and a sack. The Kansas City defense ranked 16th in the league last season, Reed's first with the Chiefs. It marked a big improvement over 2005, when the Kansas City defense ranked 25th and allowed nearly 330 yards per game.
Analysis: The Chiefs has done well this offseason, adding LBs Napoleon Harris and Donnie Edwards as well as DT Alfonso Boone. They're a low-end starting DST option this season. Reed isn't worth using in IDP league play.
News: The Kansas City Star reports that the Chiefs have released SS Sammy Knight, opting to have a training camp battle between Jarrad Page and Bernard Pollard for the starting gig. Knight finished second on the team last year with 83 tackles (74 solo) with two sacks, three passes defensed, a forced fumble and an interception.
Analysis: Knight's absence leaves the Chiefs young at strong safety, which could be a problem for them down the road. Still, the club has done well this offseason, adding LBs Napoleon Harris and Donnie Edwards as well as DT Alfonso Boone. They're a low-end starting DST option this season.
News: The Daily Southtown in Chicagoland reports that DT Alfonso Boone has signed a four-year deal with the Chiefs, getting him out of Chicago. The Bears had made no effort to re-sign him. Boone will be a part of the defensive line rotation in Kansas City.
Analysis: Boone's signing will help the Chiefs linebackers out. Remember, their LB corps is revamped with Napoleon Harris and Donnie Edwards coming on. Expect the Chiefs DST to be good enough to start as a low-end option in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: The Kansas City Star reports that the Chiefs and DT Ron Edwards have agreed to a four-year deal between $7 and $8 million. Edwards will be a part of the rotation for the Chiefs and likely start as he started every game last year.
Analysis: The signing doesn't improve the already solid status of the Chiefs DST (they're considered a low-end No. 1 unit now), nor does it impact Fantasy owners in IDP leagues as Edwards doesn't put up a lot of personal statistics.
News: LB Donnie Edwards, the free-agent linebacker who spent the first six years of his NFL career with the Chiefs, agreed Saturday to a three-year deal after the Chargers didn't try to re-sign him. He was San Diego's top tackler in all five of his seasons there, finishing the 2006 season with 141 tackles in the regular season and 13 more in the Chargers' only AFC playoff game. He also had 2 1/2 sacks and three interceptions.
Analysis: Edwards will make that linebacking unit powerful as he'll team up with Derrick Johnson and MLB Napoleon Harris. The Chiefs are still out of the top-12 DSTs in Fantasy Football, but they're not far off.
News: NFL Network's Adam Schefter reports that the Chiefs and LB Napoleon Harris have agreed to a six-year contract that guarantees the former first-round pick $6 million. Harris should wind up being the Chiefs' starting middle linebacker, getting two shots a year at the team that drafted him, the Oakland Raiders.
Analysis: The signing improves the Chiefs defense tremendously, but doesn't do enough to make them a top-12 unit in Fantasy play in 2007. Other units like the 49ers, Packers and Seahawks have past them in our rankings.
News: Chiefs DE Jared Allen formally requested a trade after contract negotiations broke down, Allen's agent, Ken Harris, said. The Kansas City Star reported that the team rejected the request, and Chiefs GM Carl Peterson told the newspaper that the club plans to tender Allen on March 1, the deadline for teams to submit qualifying offers to restricted free agents. Allen, whose contract expires this week, has 27 1/2 sacks in three years with the Chiefs. A Chiefs spokesman told the paper that the club plans to high tender Allen, which means that if another team signed him to an offer sheet, the Chiefs could match it or receive a first- and third-round draft pick.
Analysis: Could he be making this move because the talent at the defensive end position is thin this free-agent period? Allen is a producer of sacks and does quite a bit to hustle the opposing quarterbacks, forcing lots of mistakes. The Chiefs DST is a low-end starting option for Fantasy use as of now, but they'll be less desirable if they part ways with Allen.
News: The Chiefs defense gave up 397 yards and 30 points to the Jaguars in a Week 17 win. DB Ty Law had an interception in the game, while DB Sammy Knight, DB Patrick Surtain and DL Tamba Hali each had a sack.
Analysis: The Chiefs were a hard defense to read in 2006. Some weeks they were great, but other weeks they looked horrendous. They will probably be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy DST on Draft Day 2007. Knight, Law and Surtain are getting up there in age and will probably be low-end Fantasy DBs in 2007. Hali on the other hand had a great rookie year with seven sacks and will probably be a popular pick in IDP leagues next season.
News: The Chiefs gave up just nine points, all coming on field goals, in a Week 16 win over the Raiders. The Raiders put up 307 total yards, but starting QB Andrew Walter was sacked four times (LB Kawika Mitchell, DB Sammy Knight, DB Jarrad Page and DL Jared Allen) and picked off twice (both by Page). The Chiefs also forced four fumbles and recovered three of them for turnovers.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense had a big game against a poor offensive team in Week 16. They will have a tougher challenge ahead in Week 17 against the Jaguars and should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy DST. Mitchell, Knight and Allen are all viable Fantasy options in IDP leagues for Week 17. Page just had a lucky game.
News: The Kansas City Chiefs DST allowed 20 points and 353 total net yards in Week 15 at San Diego, allowing 199 rushing yards and two touchdowns to RB LaDainian Tomlinson. The Chiefs were able to pick up two sacks and two interceptions.
Analysis: The Chiefs will look to take out their frustrations on the Oakland Raiders (2-11) in Week 16 at McAfee Coliseum on Saturday in Week 16.
News: The Chiefs gave up 376 yards and 20 points in a Week 14 loss to the Ravens. They weren't able to sack Raevns QB Steve McNair or force him to throw an interception, but they did recover a fumble.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense have had kind of an up-and-down season and are quite unpredictable. They should not be used for Fantasy purposes in Week 15 against the Chargers.
News: The Chiefs defense managed to knock starting Browns QB Charlie Frye out of the game with a wrist injury, but they didn't expect backup QB Derek Anderson to have the type of game he did. The Browns racked up 438 total yards and 31 points on their way to a come from behind win in Week 13. LB Kawika Mitchell had 11 tackles and an interception, while LB Keyaron Fox had 12 tackles and a sack.
Analysis: The Chiefs could not figure out Anderson when he came into the game and it cost them dearly. Consider the Chiefs DST a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 14 against the Ravens. Mitchell is at best a low-end Fantasy option in IDP leagues.
News: The Chiefs defense held Denver to 10 points, 38 rushing yards and 216 passing yards, totaling two sacks, an interception and two forced fumbles on Thanksgiving in Week 12 play.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense should be good at Buffalo in Week 13. Consider them a low-end option in that game.
News: Jarrad Page's interception of Raiders QB Aaron Brooks in the end zone with less than a minute to play sealed the victory for the Chiefs in Week 11. The Chiefs allowed just 326 total yards, but did not sack Brooks.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense had a decent week against the Raiders and should have another decent outing in Week 12 against a struggling Broncos offense. Consider using the Chiefs DST.
News: The Chiefs may play against the Raiders without LB Derrick Johnson and DB Greg Wesley. Neither played in Miami. “We’re sledding a little bit differently right now,” coach Herman Edwards said. “I think you look at it, and some young guys are going to have to go in and play. And some backup veterans that we’ve had around here are going to have to go play. That’s just part of the process of football. You know injuries occur. Hopefully, none of them are season-ending. But obviously you’re going down the stretch and you hope they’ll hurry up and come back. But you can’t rush them either. They’re going to come back when they’re able to perform well.”
Analysis: Keep Johnson and Wesley reserved in IDP leagues this week unless they are given clearance to play. The Chiefs DST is a decent sleeper against the Raiders.
News: The Chiefs gave up only 13 points against Miami but only had one sack and one turnover. DL Jared Allen had eight tackles, a sack and a forced fumble. DB Patrick Surtain had eight tackles. DB Ty Law had six tackles. DL Tamba Hall had one tackle. DB Sammy Knight had one tackle. And LB Kawika Mitchell had eight tackles.
Analysis: The Chiefs should be considered a great start in Week 11 against Oakland, which has one of the worst offenses in the NFL.
News: Kansas City Chiefs LB Derrick Johnson will not play against Miami on Sunday, joining several other key starters on an injury list that gets longer each week. Johnson, Kansas City's best tackler and top playmaker at linebacker, hurt his ankle in the victory over the Rams and has not practiced all week.
Analysis: The second-year linebacker out of Texas is a solid IDP option when healthy. He keeps getting better and better and it is no wonder why the Chiefs used a high draft pick on him in 2005. Johnson's absence will be felt and and the Chiefs DST remains a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 10 against the Dolphins.
News: The Chiefs allowed 452 yards of total offense in Week 9 at St. Louis. They gave up only 17 points, however, in a win on the road. They also forced four fumbles and recovered three of them while sacking Rams QB Marc Bulger twice.
Analysis: Much of the yardage came because the Rams were climbing up hill through most of the game. The Chiefs are a decent Fantasy unit in leagues of 12-plus teams. Consider them a nice option in Week 10 on the road against Miami.
News: The Chiefs defense totaled two interceptions and a sack of Seattle QB Seneca Wallace in Week 8. Seattle's rushing game was held to 47 total yards.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense is talented but plays at St. Louis in Week 9, so sit them in the coming week.
News: The Chiefs defense totaled four sacks, an interception and two forced fumbles vs. San Diego in Week 7. Jared Allen had two of the four sacks.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense still isn't anything to write home about, but they're still worth starting as a bye-week replacement or at best a low-end defensive option. They may play the Seahawks without Matt Hasselbeck in Week 8, so wait and see before settling with them as your Fantasy 'D'.
News: The Chiefs defense was awful in Week 6, connecting on one sack and forcing two fumbles (one recovery) at Pittsburgh. They allowed 45 points and over 400 total yards.
Analysis: The news doesn't get much better for KC as the Chargers come into town in Week 7. Keep the Chiefs defense benched for the coming week.
News: Chiefs KR/WR Dante Hall, whose status for Sunday's game at Pittsburgh remained in doubt, missed his second day of practice on Thursday. Hall, who injured his hip while returning the second-half kickoff at Arizona, sat out the half and has not been able to practice since. "He's jogging. He's feeling better. But he didn't practice today," Edwards said. A decision on Hall could come as late as game time. If he does not practice at all, he could still be used on punt and kickoff returns, but replaced in the lineup as a starting wide receiver. If Hall does not return kicks, those duties would fall to Eddie Kennison on punts and rookie wide receiver Jeff Webb on kickoffs.
Analysis: If Hall can't go Sunday, then owners who rely on the Chiefs DST, Chiefs ST and Hall to get them return yards might want to start making alternative plans for Week 6. Check back with us for further updates heading into Sunday.
News: Rookie QB Matt Leinart might have gotten the best of the Chiefs defense early on, but they buckled down and kept the Cardinals out of the end zone after two first quarter scores. The Chiefs won 23-20. They allowed 298 total yards and sacked Leinart four times. They also forced Leinart to throw a crucial interception late in the fourth quarter that setup the game-winning score.
Analysis: That is three straight solid performances by the Chiefs defense. While their offense has been struggling, the same cannot be said for the defense. The Chiefs travel to Pittsburgh in Week 6. Consider using the Chiefs DST.
News: The Kansas City defense is ready to give Matt Leinart a memorable welcome to the NFL. "We'll mix it up a little bit," linebacker Derrick Johnson promised. "We've got some things to put on him." Leinart wasn't supposed to be a starter this soon, but with Kurt Warner's 10 fumbles and five interceptions in four games, Arizona coach Dennis Green made the switch. So the left-handed rookie who led the Trojans to two national titles and won a Heisman Trophy in the process will be at the controls Sunday when the Cardinals (1-3) try to snap a three-game losing streak against a Kansas City team coming off a 41-0 rout of San Francisco. He will face a defense that has not allowed a touchdown pass in 12 quarters to start the season, a franchise record. "They're probably licking their chops with a rookie quarterback coming in," Leinart said, "but that's just the name of the game."
Analysis: The Chiefs defense has put together two great performances (giving up nine points in the last two games) and will look to make it three straight against the Cardinals. The odds are against Leinart having a good game in his first start, so if you have the Chiefs DST, consider using them in Week 5.
News: In one of the best defensive performances of the season, the Chiefs defense absolutely mandhandled the 49ers in Week 4 shutting them out and holding them to 165 total yards. They sacked QB Alex Smith five times, forced two interceptions and three fumbles -- two in which they recovered.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense has now put together two great performances and have only given up nine points in the last two games. In Week 5 they face a potentially dangerous Cardinals offense. However, Cardinals rookie QB Matt Leinart could be making his first career start. If that happens, consider playing the Chiefs DST in Week 5. They still might be a solid play with Cardinals QB Kurt Warner under center.
News: Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Jared Allen has been charged with driving under the influence for the second time in five months. Police pulled Allen over around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday after following a Dodge Charger that was not staying in the lane, Leawood Police Capt. Dale Finger said Friday. Allen, who was alone in the car, refused to undergo sobriety testing and to take a breathalyzer test, so the officer placed him under arrest for DUI, Finger said. In Kansas, not submitting to a breath test earns an automatic suspension of the driver's license.
Analysis: Allen was ticketed for driving under the influence and given a notice to appear in court on Oct. 25, Finger said. Neither Allen nor the Chiefs would comment Friday on the stop. If the latest arrest leads to a conviction, Allen would face an NFL suspension. There is no indication that he won't play against the 49ers on Sunday, so he can remain in your active lineup in larger IDP leagues for the moment. After that, you'll have to monitor his status. The Chiefs DST is not a recommended unit, but could be a decent bye-week replacement in Week 4 against the 49ers at home.
News: As the Chiefs' offense goes into decline, their defense appears to be moving, for the first time in more than five years, toward respectability and even beyond. The Chiefs last week became the first defense in 45 years to hold the Broncos scoreless in the first half at home. "I think this defense can be good. Real good," said cornerback Patrick Surtain, joined this year by former Pro Bowl cornerback Ty Law. "We've just got to believe. Last year we had pretty good games and then we'd come back and stink up the place. If we stay consistent and believe in what we're doing, we have a chance to be one of the top defenses in the league."
Analysis: Kansas City's defense was a trendy pick in the preseason with all of the additions they made, but after Week 1 they were thrown back into the DST pile on the waiver wire after the Bengals throttled them. Holding the Broncos to nine points in Week 2 was nice, and they are back on the rise again. Look their way as a bye-week replacement, beginning with their Week 4 matchup at home vs. San Francisco.
9/17/2006
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Chiefs DST is much improved
News: The Kansas City defense allowed just nine points in an overtime loss at Denver in Week 2. They allowed 318 total net yards and had one interception. The Chiefs also did not allow an offensive touchdown to the Broncos.
Analysis: The Chiefs might be worth considering in Week 4 against the 49ers once they return from their bye if your primary unit has a difficult matchup.
9/10/2006
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Chiefs DST looks bad
News: The Chiefs DST gave up 23 points against the Bengals. Only DL Jared Allen had a sack. CB Ty Law had four tackles in his debut.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is not a recommended start against the Broncos in Week 2.
9/8/2006
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Chiefs pass defense ready for Bengals
News: Kansas City CB Patrick Surtain and the rest of the Chiefs secondary is ready for Cincinnati WR Chad Johnson and the rest of the Bengals. “I don’t think he’s going to get into the end zone, personally,” Surtain said about Johnson in the Kansas City Star. “You can write that in the paper.”
Analysis: The addition of CB Ty Law will help the Chiefs pass defense this year along with Surtain and safety Sammy Knight. However, with the explosive Bengals offense coming to town this week, the Chiefs defense is not worth using in any Fantasy leagues.
8/21/2006
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Not a hot start for KC DST
News: Through two preseason games, the Chiefs DST has allowed 41 points (24 at Houston and 17 at the Giants) with no interceptions and three sacks.
Analysis: This is very much a surprise considering that this is a team run by head coach Herm Edwards. Keep in mind that this may be an example of the depth of this Chiefs defense and not its' starters, who are seeing limited playing time. Continue to consider the Chiefs DST a low-end starting DST because of their defensive talent and special teams.
7/24/2006
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Chiefs ink CB Ty Law
News: According to a team spokesman, Pro Bowl cornerback Ty Law agreed to a five-year deal with the Chiefs. Law will compete for a starting job opposite Patrick Surtain this summer with Lenny Walls.
Analysis: This signing is big for the Chiefs. Not only will they have a proven cornerback who is very skilled in their defensive backfield, but it also gives them stellar depth at the position which will help them a lot. Consider Kansas City a solid, draftable DST unit -- the combination of Herm Edwards taking over as head coach, Ty Law coming aboard and Dante Hall returning kicks makes them very appealing.
5/1/2006
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KC's defense gets some help
News: In the 2006 NFL Draft, the Chiefs selected DE Tamba Hali in the first round, SS Bernard Pollard in the second and Marcus Maxey in the fourth.
Analysis: All three make for good role players, though Hali has the potential to do very well and might just do it considering Herm Edwards' track record with defensive ends. The Chiefs' defense is expected to improve in 2006 and still has the speedy Dante Hall as their special-teams ace. Consider them a quality No. 2 unit for 2006 league play.
4/4/2006
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Chiefs sign CB Walls
News: The Chiefs signed free-agent cornerback Lenny Walls to a one-year deal, giving the club an experienced cornerback to play opposite Patrick Surtain. The team was looking for help in the defensive backfield after releasing Eric Warfield last month. Walls, 26, started for the Broncos in 2003, but injuries limited his playing time the past two years. The 6-foot-4 cornerback started three times in 2005 before a groin injury put him on the injured-reserve list.
Analysis: Walls is expected to compete with Julian Battle, Benny Sapp and Alphonso Hodge for a spot in the starting lineup, though for now he is the favorite. Walls is not an interception magnet but does have incredible size for a cornerback. Kansas City's defense is expected to be better in 2006, and Dante Hall is a very good special teamer, so take a chance on them as a backup DST.
3/27/2006
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Chiefs add DT Edwards
News: The Chiefs agreed to a deal with ex-Bills DT Ron Edwards, reports the Kansas City Star. Edwards missed 12 games in Buffalo last season with a shoulder injury.
Analysis: Edwards is there to provide depth to the Chiefs' D-line. Kansas City's defense is expected to be better in 2006, and Dante Hall is a very good special teamer, so take a chance on them as a backup DST.
3/3/2006
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Chiefs release Warfield, Barber, McCleon
News: The Kansas City Chiefs have released CBs Eric Warfield and Dextor McCleon and LB Shawn Barber.
Analysis: Warfield and McCleon have seen a decrease in skills over the past few seasons. Barber hasn't been able to return to 100 percent after a surgical procedure on his knee in late 2004.
1/11/2006
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Chiefs DST in middle of the pack
News: The Chiefs DST unit was about average in 2005, coming up with 31 turnovers (16 interceptions, 15 fumbles) but rare in its' defensive outputs. However, they were strong down the stretch, holding the Chargers to seven points and the Bengals to three.
Analysis: With Herman Edwards coming aboard as head coach, this unit has potential to be dominating in Fantasy leagues. Consider them a top-12 Fantasy DST unit heading into 2006 drafts.
12/24/2005
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Chiefs hold Bolts to seven
News: The Chiefs allowed only seven points and 233 yards in Week 16 vs. San Diego. They also intercepted a Drew Brees pass, recovered a fumble and picked up a sack.
Analysis: The Chiefs will still have faint playoff hopes when they host the Bengals in Week 17. Consider them a decent option.
12/22/2005
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Chiefs D banged up
News: Chiefs defenders LB Shawn Barber, DE Eric Hicks, S Jerome Woods, DT John Browning and LB Boomer Grigsby are all listed as either questionable or probable on the Week 16 injury report.
Analysis: San Diego's offense should throw down on the Chiefs.
12/17/2005
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Chiefs run over by Tiki
News: The Kansas City Chiefs defense allowed 406 yards of offense, 249 yards coming from Tiki Barber. They did record a sack and forced two turnovers.
Analysis: They just didn't have an answer for Tiki Barber. Poor tackling resulted in long runs by Barber and a touchdown for Amani Toomer. They face a tough Chargers offense at home in Week 16.
12/12/2005
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Chiefs DST punished by Boys
News: The Chiefs DST allowed 31 points and 445 total net yards in Week 14 at Dallas. They also had two sacks and a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Chiefs are not a recommended Fantasy option in Week 15 against Eli Manning and the Giants.
12/9/2005
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Chiefs to go blitz happy
News: When they play the Cowboys in Dallas in Week 14, the Chiefs may be more aggressive with their blitz package against the relatively slow Drew Bledsoe. But many teams go in thinking they can get to Bledsoe, who has been dropped 29 times -- hardly an outrageous number.
Analysis: Kansas City is 30th against the pass, so they must get to Bledsoe if they're going to win the game. Considering Dallas' offensive line, the Chiefs DST should be considered a sleeper unit for Week 14.
12/4/2005
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Chiefs DST allows 27 points
News: The Chiefs DST allowed 27 points and 388 total net yards in Week 13 against the Broncos. They also had two interceptions and two sacks. DL Ryan Sims (foot) was able to make two solo tackles, DB Sammy Knight (ankle) assisted on two tackles and had his hand in a sack and LB Boomer Grigsby (abdomen) contributed with a special teams tackle.
Analysis: The Chiefs also saw DL John Browning (knee) with five solo tackles. DL Carlos Hall (hamstring) was inactive, as was DB Jerome Woods (hamstring). The Chiefs will meet the Cowboys in Dallas in Week 14.
11/27/2005
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Chiefs pick Brady four times
News: The Kansas City Chiefs intercepted New England quarterback Tom Brady four times in Week 12. Greg Wesley led the cause with three INTs. The Chiefs also recorded three sacks.
Analysis: The Chiefs have been an opportunistic defense of late and they have a dangerous return game with Dante Hall. The Chiefs host the Broncos in Week 13.
11/21/2005
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Chiefs DST finds end zone
News: Kansas City's DST unit forced three turnovers and a sack in Sunday night's blowout win over the Texans. Eric Warfield picked off David Carr and returned it 57 yards for a TD right before the half. The unit also received a boost from Dante Hall, who was questionable prior to the game with a knee injury.
Analysis: The Chiefs have an opportunistic defense and a dangerous return game with Hall. The Chiefs host the Patriots in Week 12.
News: The Kansas City Chiefs added Dante Hall to the injury report with a knee injury. He is listed as questionable for Week 11.
Analysis: Hall has minimal value as a WR, but is one of the top kick returners in the NFL. The Chiefs DST will be negatively affected by his absence as most of their value comes from Hall's ability to return kicks for touchdowns.
11/13/2005
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Chiefs hold their own
News: The Chiefs defense allowed 14 points and 209 yards in a 14-3 loss at Buffalo in Week 10. They also recorded two sacks in the effort.
Analysis: Two drives by J.P. Losman were the difference in this game. The Chiefs DST are a decent bye-week replacent option in Week 11 at Houston.
11/10/2005
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Chiefs secondary banged up
News: The Chiefs listed CBs Patrick Surtain (knee), Dexter McCleon (groin) and Eric Warfield (hip) as questionable for Week 10 at Buffalo.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is not a recommended start for Week 10.
11/6/2005
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Banged up Chiefs D holds up
News: Kansas City's defense was without CB Dexter McCleon, CB Patrick Surtain and FS Jerome Woods in Week 9 vs. Oakland and still held them to 23 points, adding a sack and an interception.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST unit is only as good as Dante Hall's return games. Owners should try to avoid using them on a regular basis.
11/6/2005
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Chiefs D banged up
News: The Chiefs will be without CB Dexter McCleon, CB Patrick Surtain and FS Jerome Woods when they host the Raiders in Week 9.
Analysis: The Chiefs should yield many points because of these missing players.
11/4/2005
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Warfield able to practice
News: The Star reports CB Eric Warfield (hip) practiced Thursday and is expected to play in Week 9. CB Dexter McCleon (groin) also practiced, but his status is uncertain.
Analysis: In other news, CB Patrick Surtain (knee) did not practice and his status is uncertain is also uncertain. The Chiefs DST is not a recommended option against Oakland in what should be a shootout at Arrowhead Stadium.
11/2/2005
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CB Surtain has sore knee
News: CB Patrick Surtain (knee) was walking Tuesday without visible evidence of a limp, and head coach Dick Vermeil said medical reports indicated no structural damage to Surtain's knee. Barring setbacks, he should be available for Week 9 vs. Oakland.
Analysis: Even with Surtain on the field, the Chiefs DST is not a recommended option in what should be a shootout at Arrowhead Stadium.
11/1/2005
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FS Woods should be OK
News: The Star reports FS Jerome Woods (hamstring) and CB Eric Warfield (hip) should be fine for Week 9. CB Dexter McCleon (groin) and CB Patrick Surtain (knee) are both questionable.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is not a recomended option vs. Oakland in what should be a shootout.
10/30/2005
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Chiefs DST does little vs. Chargers
News: Kansas City's defense managed just one sack, one INT and one fumble recovery in Sunday's 28-20 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: The Chiefs are not a recommended Fantasy option in Week 9 when they host the Raiders.
10/21/2005
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Chiefs DST solid in Week 7
News: Kansas City's defense registered two sacks and an INT in a Week 7 win over Miami.
Analysis: While their return game is one of the best, the Chiefs will have their hands full in Week 8 vs. San Diego. Seek alternative Fantasy options.
10/21/2005
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CB Warfield to return
News: CB Eric Warfield could return to the starting lineup against Miami after being inactive last week in his first game back from a four-game suspension. Warfield split time with Dewayne Washington at the right corner position Wednesday when Dexter McCleon, who replaced Warfield at right corner when Warfield was serving his time, missed practice with a groin strain.
Analysis: Warfield's presence should improve the Chiefs' defensive backfield, but this DST is still not a recommended option in most cases.
10/20/2005
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Chiefs to face Dolphins Friday night
News: The game between the Miami Dolphins and the Kansas City Chiefs was rescheduled to Friday night to beat Hurricane Wilma's arrival in Florida. The game will begin at 7 p.m. Friday instead of Sunday afternoon, which is about when Wilma is expected to hit Florida's southwestern coast.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams in Week 7.
10/16/2005
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Chiefs DST allows 21 points
News: The Chiefs DST allowed 21 points and recorded one TD (Sammy Knight) and four sacks in Sunday's 28-21 win over the Washington Redskins.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams on the road against the Miami Dolphins.
10/11/2005
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CB Eric Warfield returns
News: The Kansas City Star reports that the four-game suspension for CB Eric Warfield is over and he returned to practice Monday ready to play against Washington in Week 6. For now, he will work as a reserve, if he gets activated at all Sunday. The Chiefs also placed LB Keyaron Fox on injured reserve.
Analysis: Warfield is not worth picking up in IDP leagues. CB Dexter McCleon has a firm grasp on a starting job. His return shouldn't make much difference for an improved Chiefs defense.
10/2/2005
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KR Hall only bright spot for DST
News: WR/KR Dante Hall was the only bright spot for the Kansas City DST in Week 4 against Philadelphia, returning a kickoff 96 yards to tie an NFL record with six returns for score in his career.
Analysis: The Chiefs were pounded for 37 points and 396 total net yards in the game while mustering only one sack and one interception. The Chiefs will have two weeks to regroup before hosting the Redskins after a bye.
9/27/2005
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Chiefs DST rocked for 30 points
News: The Chiefs defense allowed 30 points and 358 total net yards in Monday's game against the Broncos in Denver. On a positive note, they were able to record a sack and interception.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense is not a recommended play in Week 4 when Donovan McNabb, Terrell Owens and Brian Westbrook come to town.
9/19/2005
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Chiefs hold Raiders to 17
News: Kansas City's DST only recorded one sack and two fumble recoveries, but still held the Raiders offense to 17 points. Only Randy Moss (127 yards, TD) had a big game, and KR Dante Hall had a kickoff return for a TD nullified by a holding penalty.
Analysis: When facing soft offenses, the Chiefs DST should be a useful Fantasy unit.
9/11/2005
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Chiefs DST allows seven points
News: The Chiefs DST allowed seven points and recorded three sacks and one interception in Sunday's win over the N.Y. Jets.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST could become a nice waiver-wire option in leagues with 12-plus teams.
9/3/2005
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Ashley Ambrose released
News: The Kansas City Chiefs have released Ashley Ambrose.
Analysis: Ambrose could decide to retire rather than look for another team.
8/19/2005
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Kendrell Bell out vs. Cardinals
News: Chiefs head coach Dick Vermeil has ruled out LB Kendrell Bell (groin) for the team's second preseason game against Arizona. LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring) will also miss the Cardinals game.
Analysis: Bell will play in the Week 3 preseason game.
8/5/2005
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Barber could be out awhile
News: Chiefs.com reports Shawn Barber (knee) will begin the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and could still be out another two months. "Barber will be on physically unable to perform starting the season," head coach Dick Vermeil said. "Medically we know it make take another six weeks into the season before he’s really ready to be turned loose."
Analysis: With Kendrell Bell and Derrick Johnson both expected to start, Barber will be a reserve once he returns. The Chiefs DST has little value in drafts.
7/31/2005
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Chiefs sign rookie LB Johnson
News: The Chiefs signed rookie LB Derrick Johnson to a five-year contract on Sunday, according to the Kansas City Star.
Analysis: Johnson will challenge for a starting linebacker job. His addition strengthens an already improving Chiefs defense. They are a decent D/ST in Fantasy leagues, especially with WR/KR Dante Hall in the mix.
7/27/2005
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Chiefs LBs in camp, out of camp
News: Linebackers Scott Fujita and Mike Maslowski are cleared to practice when the Chiefs go to camp, while rookie Derrick Johnson remains unsigned and vet Shawn Barber is not cleared, reports the Kansas City Star.
Analysis: The Chiefs are pretty deep at linebacker, especially with Kendrell Bell and rookie Derrick Johnson coming aboard. If their play improves the whole unit, combined with Dante Hall's return power, this could be a very big sleeper DST unit to have.
7/25/2005
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Chiefs' LBs placed on PUP list
News: Three Chiefs linebackers -- Mike Maslowski, Shawn Barber and Scott Fujita -- will likely open camp on the active/PUP list when Kansas City's training session opens on July 28.
Analysis: The Chiefs are pretty deep at linebacker, especially with Kendrell Bell and rookie Derrick Johnson coming aboard. This should make a dent in their value, which is already pretty low.
7/14/2005
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No contract for Johnson
News: The Kansas City Star reports the Chiefs and Derrick Johnson have not come to terms on a contract, but he wants to sign before training camp. "That is our whole intention here," Johnson's agent, Vann McElroy said.
Analysis: The Chiefs have added some solid defenders in the offseason, but their DST still does not warrant consideration in most drafts.
News: Warfield has been suspended for the first four games of the 2005 season for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. "This has always been a possibility," said Bob Moore, a Chiefs spokesman. "It's not something the team hasn't been prepared for."
Analysis: The absence of Warfield could mean a more prominent role for CB Ashley Ambrose, who now has a chance to start opposite CB Patrick Surtain.
7/1/2005
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Chiefs add CB Ambrose
News: Veteran Ashley Ambrose agreed to a one-year deal with the Chiefs, the team announced.
Analysis: Ambrose's presence gives the Chiefs depth at cornerback, but won't help the value of the Chiefs D/ST.
6/23/2005
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Cunningham talks up his defense
News: Chiefs defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham recently talked about his squad's improvement over the offseason on KCChiefs.com. The Chiefs added players like Kendrell Bell, Patrick Surtain, Sammy Knight and Derrick Johnson, and Cunningham likes the direction of his team. "We've had a lot of guys make a lot of progress," Cunningham said. "That can't stop now."
Analysis: Kansas City's D/ST gets attention because of Dante Hall and the return game. That makes this unit a decent No. 2 D/ST. If the defense makes strides during the early part of 2005, then it's certainly a top unit to own in Fantasy Football.
6/20/2005
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Battle tears Achilles' tendon
News: Julian Battle has torn his left Achilles' tendon during a recent Kansas City minicamp. "He's going to be operated on," head coach Dick Vermeil said. "He popped his Achilles' tendon, and he's lost for the year."
Analysis: The injury impacts the Chiefs' depth, but little else. They will be an improved defensive unit in 2005, but still not to the point where they merit drafting in any Fantasy league.
4/23/2005
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Chiefs select LB Johnson
News: The Kansas City Chiefs selected Derrick Johnson with the No. 15 overall selection in the 2005 NFL Draft.
Analysis: The Chiefs had the 31st-ranked defense in the NFL last season, so it's no surprise the team went with defense. The additions of Johnson, LB Kendrell Bell, S Sammy Knight and CB Patrick Surtain are positive moves.
4/22/2005
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Chiefs acquire CB Surtain
News: According to reports, the Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to send their second-round draft choice and swap fifth-round picks with the Miami Dolphins in exchange for Patrick Surtain. The Chiefs have also agreed to terms on a new seven-year deal with Surtain.
Analysis: Surtain is a solid addition for the Chiefs, who have already added LB Kendrell Bell, DL Carlos Hall and DB Sammy Knight this offseason.
4/6/2005
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Chiefs acquire DE Hall
News: According to reports, the Kansas City Chiefs have sent a fifth-round draft choice in 2005 to the Tennessee Titans for Carlos Hall.
Analysis: The 6-foot-3, 259-pound Hall made 31 starts in three seasons with Tennessee. He had 41 tackles, 2.5 sacks and a fumble recovery in 2004.
3/11/2005
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Chiefs ink S Knight
News: According to reports, the Kansas City Chiefs have signed Sammy Knight to a five-year contract.
Analysis: Knight and LB Kendrell Bell have been added to what should be an improved Chiefs DST next season.
3/9/2005
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Chiefs interested in Surtain
News: The Chiefs official website reports the team is working on a deal with the Miami Dolphins to acquire CB Patrick Surtain. "That door is certainly open," Chiefs president Carl Peterson said. "It is as much with Miami as it is with his agent, if we can get to some kind of contract that makes sense. I think that is a difficult thing to do, but it is something we still have on the table. They are still talking to us and want to continue to talk to us because I think Patrick would like to leave Miami."
Analysis: Surtain is entering the final year of his contract with the Dolphins, where he is scheduled to earn $6.15 million.
3/8/2005
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Chiefs ink LB Bell
News: According to the team's official website, the Chiefs have signed former Steelers' LB Kendrell Bell.
Analysis: Bell has played in 47 regular season games (44 starts), recording 255 tackles (206 solo) and 18.0 sacks.
12/19/2004
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Chiefs sack Broncos
News: The Chiefs sacked Jake Plummer six times and Dexter McCleon intercepted him twice as Kansas City routed the Broncos in Week 15. Dante Hall returned the opening kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: Despite their nice day, the Chiefs have little Fantasy value. They face the Raiders in Week 16.
11/28/2004
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Chiefs allow 34 points
News: The Chiefs DST allowed 34 points with one touchdown (KR Dante Hall) in Sunday's loss to San Diego.
Analysis: This unit is not a recommended option in Week 13 at Oakland.
11/26/2004
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Chiefs D/ST injury update
News: The Chiefs listed the following defensive players on their injury report for Week 12 against San Diego: LB Monty Beisel (calf, doubtful), DE Vonnie Holliday (knee, questionable), DT Junior Siavii (ankle, questionable), S Jerome Woods (knee, questionable) and CB William Bartee (foot, probable).
Analysis: The Chiefs should be avoided for their matchup in Week 12 against the Chargers.
11/23/2004
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Chiefs can't stop Brady
News: The Kansas City defense had no answer for Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in a Week 11 loss to the defending Super Bowl champions.
Analysis: Brady passed for 315 yards on Kansas City and Corey Dillon rushed for 98 yards. The Kansas City D/ST have little value in Fantasy football. The Chiefs face the Chargers in Week 12.
11/18/2004
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Chiefs D/ST injury update
News: The Chiefs have listed the following defensive players on their injury report for Week 11: LB Monty Beisel (calf, questionable), CB Dexter McCleon (hamstring, questionable), DT Junior Siavii (ankle, questionable), CB William Bartee (foot, probable), DT John Browning (shoulder, probable) and DE Vonnie Holliday (abdomen, probable).
Analysis: Kansas City faces the Patriots in Week 11. They have little Fantasy value.
11/14/2004
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Chiefs allow 27 points
News: The Chiefs DST allowed 27 points with four sacks and one interception in Sunday's loss to New Orleans.
Analysis: This unit is not a recommended option for Week 11.
11/11/2004
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Shawn Barber on IR
News: According to the Kansas City Star, the Chiefs placed starting outside linebacker Shawn Barber(knee) on the injured reserve list, ending his season. "We're going miss him not just for the way he plays the game but for the chemistry he brings to the locker room, to the plane ride, to the pregame meal," coach Dick Vermeil said. "He's a comedian. He makes me laugh even when I don't feel like it; we'll miss him for a lot of reasons."
Analysis: Barber hurt his knee in Week 9 at Tampa. Linebacker Monty Beisel will likely take over for Barber in Week 10 at New Orleans. In other news, the following Kansas City defensive players were listed on the injury report for Week 10: LB Monty Beisel (calf, questionable), DE Vonnie Holliday (abdomen, questionable), CB Dexter McCleon (hamstring, questionable), DT Junior Siavii (ankle, probable), and DT John Browning (shoulder, probable).
11/9/2004
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LB Barber sprains knee
News: The Topeka Capital-Journal reports LB Shawn Barber (knee) is scheduled to visit Dr. James Andrews this week.
Analysis: The Chiefs fear he could miss the remainder of the season.
10/31/2004
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Chiefs allow 35 points
News: The Chiefs DST allowed 35 points with one interception and one forced fumble in Sunday's win over Indianapolis.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is not a recommended option in Week 9 at Tampa Bay.
10/27/2004
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Beisel likely out
News: According to the Kansas City Star, middle linebacker Monty Beisel (calf) is likely out for Week 8 against Indianapolis. Kawika Mitchell is slated to start in his place. In other news, defensive tackle Junior Siavii is doubtful for Week 8 with a lower leg injury and cornerback Dexter McCleon (hamstring) is questionable.
Analysis: The Chiefs should be avoided for their matchup in Week 8 against the Colts.
10/24/2004
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Chiefs allow 10 points
News: The Chiefs DST allowed 10 points with three sacks and two interceptions in Sunday's win over Atlanta.
Analysis: This unit isn't a recommended option in Week 8 at Indianapolis.
10/22/2004
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Sims questionable
News: Defensive tackle Ryan Sims (hamstring) is questionable for Week 7 against the Atlanta Falcons. Four other Kansas City defenders were listed on the injury report, all as "probable" for Week 7: LB Shawn Barber (hand), CB Julian Battle (Achilles), LB Monty Beisel (hip flexor) and LB Scott Fujita (ankle).
Analysis: The Chiefs are not a recommended Fantasy defense against the Falcons.
10/17/2004
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Chiefs get passed on
News: Byron Leftwich passed for 298 yards in Week 6 against Kansas City.
Analysis: The Chiefs have a weak defense and have little Fantasy value except for the return skills of Dante Hall. The Chiefs host the Falcons in Week 7.
10/13/2004
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Chiefs D to focus on Leftwich
News: Kansas City's defense will be keying on Byron Leftwich in Week 6's matchup against 3-1 Jacksonville. "Strong-armed guy," coach Dick Vermeil told the Cincinnati Enquirer. "I mean he can throw it, like they say, he can throw it through a car wash without getting it wet. When he bears down to throw that thing, it whistles. You can see it on the videotape. There is velocity there and sometimes the balls are dropped because they're traveling so fast and so hard."
Analysis: The Chiefs are allowing over 27 points and 318 offensive yards per game through four contests. At this point, Kansas City is not a great Fantasy option this week.
10/12/2004
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DT Sims and LB Fujita likely out
News: The Kansas City Star reports that DT Ryan Sims (hamstring) and LB Scott Fujita (ankle) were unlikely to play at Jacksonville Sunday. Neither player practiced Monday. Vonnie Holliday will likely replace him in the lineup and Kawika Mitchell would replace Fujita.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST is not worth starting in any Fantasy leagues.
News: The Kansas City defense allowed only 207 net yards in Week 4 at Baltimore. The defense was credited with allowing 24 points, but seven of those points occured against the special teams unit when punt returner B.J. Sams scorched them for a 58-yard touchdown right before the end of the first half.
Analysis: The club also welcomed DL Vonnie Holliday (groin) for limited work on defense. KR/WR Dante Hall (lip) was also able to play, but he was quiet. Baltimore P Dave Zastudil kept the ball away from him most of the night, allowing for only two faircatches.
10/2/2004
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Eric Warfield to play Sunday
News: The Kansas City Star reports that Warfield (back) was unable to practice Friday but he is expected to play, according to head coach Dick Vermeil.
Analysis: Warfield's three interceptions this season make him ultra valuable to the Chiefs DST, although their true value comes from the legs of Pro Bowl return man Dante Hall. Their defense does not do enough to warrant starting in most Fantasy leagues.
10/2/2004
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Dante Hall returns to practice
News: Hall (infected lower lip) practiced Friday with the Chiefs and he is expected to be ready to play at Baltimore Monday.
Analysis: The Chiefs DST should remain a threat in all Fantasy leagues as long as Hall is on the field for kick returns.
9/29/2004
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Holliday ready to start?
News: According to the Kansas City Star, defensive end Vonnie Holliday (groin) could return to the starting lineup for Week 4 against Baltimore.
Analysis: The Chiefs are not a recommended defense in any league.
9/26/2004
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Chiefs can't contain Texans
News: Kansas City allowed Houston to score 10 points late in the 4th quarter to beat them 24-21 in Week 3.
Analysis: The Chiefs have one of the poorest defenses in the NFL and shouldn't be considered in any Fantasy formats. Kansas City faces the Ravens on Monday night in Week 4.
9/24/2004
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Holliday getting better
News: According to the Kansas City Star , defensive end Vonnie Holliday (groin) practiced on Thursday and according to coach Dick Vermeil is "questionable to probable" for Week 3 against Houston.
Analysis: The Chiefs are one of the worst defenses in the NFL right now and have no Fantasy appeal outside of Dante Hall and their return game.
9/24/2004
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Ellis Johnson back at practice
News: According to the Denver Post, newly acquired defensive lineman Ellis Johnson was able to practice with the Broncos on Thursday. "It was good to do some tussling and fighting with the offensive line," Johnson said. "It was great work. It was good to get back and it should get me ready." Count coach Mike Shanahan as one that liked what he saw. "I saw him in some pass-rush drills," Shanahan said. "He's going to really help."
Analysis: Johnson was traded from the Falcons to the Broncos for a 2005 conditional draft pick. Denver should only be considered in larger leagues for their Week 3 game with the Chargers.
9/19/2004
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CB Warfield scores TD
News: CB Eric Warfield scored on a 43-yard interception return during Sunday's loss to Carolina. On the downside, the Chiefs DST allowed 28 points with a mere one sack and one forced fumble.
Analysis: This unit is still a good option in Week 3 against Houston.
9/17/2004
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Vonnie Holliday questionable
News: Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Vonnie Holliday is questionable for Week 2. Other defensive players listed on the Chiefs injury report: Questionable -- CB William Bartee (neck), LB Keyaron Fox (quadricep), DE (groin), LB Kawika Mitchell (ankle) and S Greg Wesley (hamstring). Probable -- CB Dexter McCleon (shoulder) and CB Eric Warfield (knee).
Analysis: The Carolina Panthers play at the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2. They have very little Fantasy value.
9/13/2004
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Chiefs D torched by Denver
News: The Chiefs defense allowed 34 points in Week 1 at Denver. Quentin Griffin ran roughshod over the Kansas City defensive unit, posting 153 total yards and three touchdowns.
Analysis: The Broncos limited Dante Hall to one punt return and one kickoff return, limited the appeal of the Chiefs defense/special teams unit on Sunday night. They will look to bounce back in Week 2 against the Panthers at Arrowhead.
9/12/2004
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DB Bartee sprains neck
News: DB William Bartee suffered a sprained neck in the first quarter of Sunday's game at Denver.
Analysis: Bartee's return is questionable. His loss does not significantly decrease the Fantasy appeal of the defensive unit from a Fantasy perspective.
9/10/2004
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Chiefs head to Denver
News: The Kansas City defense will try to contain Jake Plummer, Quentin Griffin and the Broncos this weekend to start the season.
Analysis: The Chiefs have tried to upgrade their defense this offseason but are certainly not at the level where they should be considered in Fantasy leagues.
9/6/2004
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LB Maslowski lands on I-R
News: LB Mike Maslowski (knee) was placed on injured reserve on Sunday, ending his season.
Analysis: The team also shipped DE R-Kal Truluck to the Green Bay Packers for a fifth and sixth round draft pick. He was beaten out by DE Jared Allen for a starting job.
8/26/2004
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Chiefs D banged up
News: According to the Kansas City Star, Vonnie Holliday, Mike Maslowski, Kawika Mitchell, Jerome Woods and Greg Wesley all sat out practice on Wednesday with various injuries. Maslowski and Mitchell probably won't be ready for the season opener on Sept. 12.
Analysis: Kansas City's defense needs to first get healthy and then work on improving their play from last season. They have little Fantasy value at this point.
8/25/2004
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Jared Allen turning heads in KC
News: According to the Kansas City Star, rookie defensive end Jared Allen is competing for a starting position with the Kansas City defense after an excellent training camp. "He's competing to start, not for a roster spot," coach Dick Vermeil said. "He's a good football player. My input during the draft was: I see the same things in this guy I saw in Grant Wistrom. He will contribute to this football team."
Analysis: The Chiefs defense looked improved in their recent preseason win against St. Louis. Still, this unit has a ways to go before it can be considered in Fantasy leagues.
8/23/2004
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Chiefs D not there yet
News: According to the Kansas City Star, the rebuilding process with Chiefs' defense is not yet complete. "Our defense isn't put together yet," coach Dick Vermeil said. "I'm confident it will get put together. I just don't know how long (it will take)."
Analysis: They needed to do something after getting torched last season. Owners should avoid the Chiefs' defense in Fantasy leagues.
8/10/2004
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Chiefs defense injury update
News: The Kansas City Star reports LB Mike Maslowski (knee) might be cut due to his slowly mending knee injury.
Analysis: If Maslowski is let go, look for Kawika Mitchell to be promoted to start at middle linebacker. The Chiefs defense is a solid defensive/special teams unit solely on Dante Hall's kick return abilities.
2/26/2004
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S Woods signed for six years
News: Jerome Woods signed a six-year contract on Wednesday to remain with the Chiefs.
Analysis: Woods will again be one of the better cover men in the AFC. Retaining Woods make the Chiefs a solid Fantasy defense again for 2004.
12/17/2003
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Chiefs defense injury update
News: The Kansas City Star reports LB Mike Maslowski (knee) missed practice on Wednesday and is doubtful for Week 16 at Minnesota. DT Eric Downing aggravated his groin injury in Wednesday's practice and he is doubtful.
Analysis: LB Monty Beisel missed practice due to a groin injury on Wednesday and he will not play at Minnesota. S Greg Wesley missed practice on Wednesday with a thigh injury, but he is expected to play. Consider reserving the Chiefs for their unfavorable matchup against Daunte Culpepper, Randy Moss and the rest of the Vikings offense.
11/25/2003
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Chiefs pass defense a tough one
News: Kansas City has 19 interceptions in 11 games this season, which ties them for second in the league behind Minnesota.
Analysis: The Chiefs have become a solid Fantasy defense.
9/10/2003
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Several Chiefs dinged up
News: The Kansas City Star reports CB William Bartee (ankle) is "questionable to doubtful" for Week 2. Bartee missed Sunday's game against San Diego and was replaced in the starting lineup by Dexter McCleon. DT Eddie Freeman (elbow) is out but will return to practice this week.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense is worth starting in larger Fantasy leagues.
7/24/2003
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Chiefs LB looking good
News: The Kansas City Star says Shawn Barber is having an impressive camp so far. He has made frequent stops against the run. "He's a total impact guy," Dick Vermeil said. "In the off-season program, in the locker room, in the weight room, he's a total impact guy. And then every time he comes on the field, he makes a play."
Analysis: Kansas City's defense should be improved with the additions of Barber and defensive end Vonnie Holliday, but it will still not be among the better units in Fantasy Football.
