The Kansas City Chiefs could use some further veteran help even after signing a handful of veteran free agents, drafting another 8 players and signing over a dozen UDFAs. The reason is that after the injury riddled 2011 season, the Chiefs learned the hard lesson about having quality depth, something that killed the Chiefs at multiple positions.
The team brought in Dallas Clark and O.J. Atogwe to check out veteran options at tight end and safety this week already. Both players play at the same spots as Tony Moeaki and Eric Berry — two Chiefs stars who were lost for the entire 2011 and are currently rehabbing trying to get back to full strength. For Moeaki in particular, he’s had trouble staying completely healthy over time. Kevin Boss has already been signed, but signing another veteran to a one-year deal would be a great addition.
Adam Caplan, NFL analyst, recently speculated on some players who could help behind Eric Berry and Kendrick Lewis at safety recently and his quotes were featured at the Chiefs official website.
"There are a ton of veterans still out there that could help at safety," Adam Caplan of NFL Sirius Radio said this week on Chiefs LIVE! "I think Atogwe would be a really nice signing for one season, though he’s had a lot of injuries and he’s 30 years old.
"Chris Crocker (Browns/Falcons/Dolphins/Bengals) has had a lot of injuries, but he’s another smart football player. Jim Leonhard (Bills/Jets) could return punts too, but needs to pass his physical. Nick Collins (Packers) is also out there, but will need to pass a physical and is not ready yet."
If the Chiefs were able to sign any of those guys to a one year deal, it would be an instant win. Leonhard has a playoff toughness from his time with the Ravens and Jets. Collins has been a celebrated player on a championship team. The others would also add a veteran cushion so everything doesn’t fall on rookie De’quan Menzie or the stable of guys from last season.
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