Sizing up Chiefs’ cornerback competition — the lone position battle in camp
In Kansas City Chiefs’ training camp, the spotlight is on the cornerback position battle. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is excited about the competition and the opportunity for one player to emerge as the clear choice for the second cornerback spot alongside All-Pro Trent McDuffie.
The early favorite seemed to be Joshua Williams, a third-year veteran, but Nazeeh Johnson, another third-year player, quickly made a push. Unfortunately, Johnson suffered a minor setback due to a strained hamstring. Kelvin Joseph, a fourth-year veteran, also entered the mix and started receiving first-team repetitions before sustaining a strained hamstring injury of his own. Now, Jaylen Watson, a third-year player who has recovered from a shoulder injury, joins the competition.
With the preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars approaching, Saturday’s game will be the first opportunity for one of the four contenders — Williams, Johnson, Joseph, or Watson — to gain an advantage on the depth chart. Spagnuolo emphasized that the mental aspect of the game will be evaluated first. The Chiefs need a cornerback who can be as productive as McDuffie and make plays consistently.
If Tuesday’s starting lineup is any indication, Watson will be the first to showcase his skills. He was with the projected starters during the long-drive team period and made impressive plays in the one-on-one drill, including an interception and a leaping pass breakup. Watson has proven himself in the past, recording 30 tackles, six pass breakups, and two sacks in 16 games last season.
Williams has also shown promise, particularly with his speed and 6-foot-3 length, making several pass breakups in recent practices. He understands the importance of consistency and is determined to be at his best in every snap. Williams acknowledges that playing 60 snaps versus 20 is more demanding and requires greater consistency, but he is ready and willing to adjust.
As the Chiefs continue to evaluate their cornerback options, fans are eager to see who will emerge as the frontrunner for the second cornerback position. The preseason opener will provide a clearer picture of each player’s capabilities and potential impact on the team. With McDuffie as a solid anchor on one side, the Chiefs are in search of a cornerback who can complement him effectively and contribute to the team’s success.
In conclusion, the Chiefs’ cornerback competition is heating up, with Joshua Williams, Nazeeh Johnson, Kelvin Joseph, and Jaylen Watson vying for the second cornerback spot. Each player brings unique skills and experiences to the table, and the preseason opener will be crucial in determining who will rise to the top. The Chiefs’ defense will greatly benefit from a cornerback who can match McDuffie’s productivity and make plays consistently.