Glenn Dorsey is the official free agent to be along the defensive line. But given his paycheck next season of a scheduled $14 million-plus amount, this is also likely a contract year for Tyson Jackson on the other side of the line. The Chiefs have major decisions to make with both defensive ends and it will be an interesting to subplot to watch all season.
It's also an important year for development for both players along the line as rookie contracts expire and experience allows both players to take the leap. For Jackson, this year is a chance to take his game to the next level as the former No. 3 pick in the NFL Draft.
"I've just got to lay it on the line every play," said Jackson from training camp on the year ahead for him. "Come out there like it's the last play of my career, so I leave it all on the table and rely on my technique, and what I've been taught over the last couple of years on how to play a 3-4 defense, and how to be strong inside, and how to control those offensive lineman."
It's clear that Jackson is excited to play for Crennel as the team's new head coach. It also helps that he has a vision of Jackson and what he can be.
"It's pretty good, even though he's the head coach now he still helps out with the defensive line a whole lot," said Jackson. "It's a lot of us up front being able to hit those offensive lineman, and keep them flat on the line of scrimmage so the guys in the back can run around and make some plays."
Jackson had 55 tackles and 1 sack last season.