The Kansas City Chiefs have been cruising through the season with only one loss to their name. However, beneath the surface of their success lies a pressing concern—the defense, particularly in the secondary, is in need of reinforcements. While the Chiefs have shown resilience, the challenges they face in pass defense could hinder their quest for another Super Bowl title.
Defensive Struggles in the Secondary
The Chiefs’ pass defense has struggled significantly, especially following the departure of L’Jarius Sneed and the injury to Jaylen Watson. These setbacks have left a noticeable gap in the secondary, raising questions about the team’s ability to hold up against high-powered offenses. With the stakes as high as they are, the Chiefs can’t afford to let these vulnerabilities linger.
Potential Solutions: Xavien Howard on the Radar
In light of these challenges, discussions have emerged about potential players who could bolster the Chiefs’ defense. One name that stands out is Xavien Howard, a player who, despite not being in his prime, could provide the Chiefs with much-needed experience and skill. FanSided’s Lyle Graversen highlighted Howard as a top option, emphasizing that while he may be 31 years old, he still possesses considerable talent that could benefit Kansas City.
Graversen noted, "Xavien Howard is probably the most talented option on this list. While he isn’t young, 31 isn’t completely over the hill in NFL years." Last season, Howard logged 475 pass coverage snaps, earning a Pro Football Focus grade of 51.9. In comparison, Watson had a much more respectable grade of 74.2 before his injury, while Nazeeh Johnson currently sits at 47.8. These numbers illustrate the need for improvement in the Chiefs’ secondary.
Howard’s Past Performance and Current Status
Howard’s resume speaks for itself. He was an All-Pro in 2020, racking up an impressive 10 interceptions and 20 passes defended. His performance earned him a lucrative five-year, $90 million contract with the Miami Dolphins before the 2022 season. However, injuries and a decline in performance led to his release, and since then, he has only managed to secure seven interceptions.
While Howard may not be the player he once was, there is a glimmer of hope. Just as DeAndre Hopkins found new life after joining the Chiefs, Howard could also tap into a new gear, especially when surrounded by a winning culture. The Chiefs don’t necessarily need him to return to his All-Pro form; they simply require him to be more effective than the current options on the roster.
The Chiefs’ Needs and Howard’s Fit
The Chiefs are in a unique position. They don’t need Howard to be an All-Pro; they just need him to elevate their current secondary play. A player with Howard’s pedigree and skill set being available is surprising, and it raises the question: why hasn’t he been signed yet? Character concerns may play a role in this, but head coach Andy Reid has built a reputation for giving players second chances.
Imagine the impact Howard could have on a defense that is already formidable. With his experience and past accolades, he could mentor younger players and provide leadership in critical moments. The Chiefs’ coaching staff could work closely with him to refine his skills and maximize his potential.
The Road Ahead for the Chiefs
As the season progresses, the Chiefs must address their secondary issues to maintain their competitive edge. The NFL landscape is unforgiving, and every game counts. With the playoffs looming, the Chiefs cannot afford to let their defensive weaknesses be exploited by opposing offenses.
In addition to considering Howard, the Chiefs should explore other potential free agents or trades that could enhance their secondary. This proactive approach could make all the difference in the postseason, where every play can shift the momentum of a game.
Conclusion: A Crucial Decision Awaits
In summary, the Kansas City Chiefs are at a crossroads. While their record is impressive, the cracks in their secondary could pose a significant threat to their championship aspirations. Signing Xavien Howard could be a game-changer, providing the experience and skill needed to shore up the defense. With the right moves, the Chiefs can continue their pursuit of greatness and aim for another Super Bowl victory. The question remains: will they take the plunge and bring in the talent necessary to elevate their game? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—the stakes have never been higher.
