AFC West: Kansas City Chiefs
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Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but it’s never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Chiefs in 2012.
Dream scenario (10-6): Kansas City’s roster is much stronger than it was in 2011, when the Chiefs were riddled with key injuries. Kansas City lost franchise building blocks such as Eric Berry, Jamaal Charles and Tony Moeaki very early. If such young players can return to where they were pre-injury to go along with an extremely strong offseason for Kansas City, this roster could be one of the most talented and deepest in the NFL. Despite a gaping hole at right tackle, the Chiefs’ pass-blocking was pretty strong in 2011, but the run-blocking was suspect. Kansas City has upgraded dramatically at that spot with the addition of Eric Winston, so expect the front five to excel this season. Another area in which Kansas City could rather easily improve is on special teams, where overall they struggled quite a bit in 2011. Based on last year’s opponents’ winning percentage, the Chiefs have the easiest schedule in the AFC West by a narrow margin over Oakland. To me, the Chiefs' ceiling this year is winning the division and maybe a playoff game or two.
Nightmare scenario (7-9): When discussing the Chiefs’ roster, which overall I am very high on, I failed to mention the quarterback position. Matt Cassel is not a bad quarterback, but he certainly isn’t a difference-maker, either. In fact, Kansas City is possibly the weakest team in the AFC West at the most important position on the field -- although a case could be made for the Raiders for that distinction. Also, there is little behind Cassel if he should fall to injury, as he did a year ago. That in itself puts a low ceiling on what this team might be able to ultimately accomplish in 2012. Also, will those young talents return to past form after injury? Will Dontari Poe be a difference-maker in his first NFL season? Although I don’t see the Chiefs’ ceiling being as high as Denver’s, I think their floor is in the 7-9 range unless utter disaster strikes again.
Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but it’s never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Chiefs in 2012.
Dream scenario (10-6): Kansas City’s roster is much stronger than it was in 2011, when the Chiefs were riddled with key injuries. Kansas City lost franchise building blocks such as Eric Berry, Jamaal Charles and Tony Moeaki very early. If such young players can return to where they were pre-injury to go along with an extremely strong offseason for Kansas City, this roster could be one of the most talented and deepest in the NFL. Despite a gaping hole at right tackle, the Chiefs’ pass-blocking was pretty strong in 2011, but the run-blocking was suspect. Kansas City has upgraded dramatically at that spot with the addition of Eric Winston, so expect the front five to excel this season. Another area in which Kansas City could rather easily improve is on special teams, where overall they struggled quite a bit in 2011. Based on last year’s opponents’ winning percentage, the Chiefs have the easiest schedule in the AFC West by a narrow margin over Oakland. To me, the Chiefs' ceiling this year is winning the division and maybe a playoff game or two.
Nightmare scenario (7-9): When discussing the Chiefs’ roster, which overall I am very high on, I failed to mention the quarterback position. Matt Cassel is not a bad quarterback, but he certainly isn’t a difference-maker, either. In fact, Kansas City is possibly the weakest team in the AFC West at the most important position on the field -- although a case could be made for the Raiders for that distinction. Also, there is little behind Cassel if he should fall to injury, as he did a year ago. That in itself puts a low ceiling on what this team might be able to ultimately accomplish in 2012. Also, will those young talents return to past form after injury? Will Dontari Poe be a difference-maker in his first NFL season? Although I don’t see the Chiefs’ ceiling being as high as Denver’s, I think their floor is in the 7-9 range unless utter disaster strikes again.
Denver Broncos
Cornerback Tracy Porter, whose pick-six sealed the New Orleans Saints' Super Bowl XLIV victory over the Indianapolis Colts, hasn't gotten around to talking trash to new Denver teammate Peyton Manning, the man who threw that ball. "I think once we finally get settled in we'll have enough time to shoot that little joke in," Porter told USA Today. "As of right now, we're both still learning."
The Broncos' trade of backup cornerback Cassius Vaughn to Indianapolis for little-used fullback Chris Gronkowski is most significant for the fact that it's Matt Russell's first trade since taking over as director of player personnel, Mike Klis notes.
Defensive end Elvis Dumervil is "more in shape" than at this point last year, he tells the Broncos' official site, and credits the team's strength coach and a new nutrition plan.
After a Pro Bowl rookie season, Broncos linebacker Von Miller landed the Denver Athletic Club's Colorado Athlete of the Year award.
Kansas City Chiefs
Coach Romeo Crennel, who grew up in a military family, and linebacker Caleb Campbell, a West Point grad who holds the rank of lieutenant in the U.S. Army, were among a Chiefs contingent that visited a junior high school at nearby Fort Leavenworth.
Oakland Raiders
With more talent on his side of the ball than on defense, new Raiders offensive coordinator Greg Knapp is going to need to keep the unit humming and take some pressure off Dennis Allen's defense, Mark Purdy writes in the San Jose Mercury News.
Mike Goodson, an offseason trade acquisition from Carolina, is making an impression with coaches in his quest to win the backup running back job.
San Diego Chargers
General manager A.J. Smith laughed off Las Vegas picking the Chargers to finish second in the division, behind Denver. "I couldn't care less about predictions," Smith told U-T San Diego on Wednesday. "It's fun to do, and it stimulates conversation."
Coach Norv Turner told season-ticket holders during a conference call that he'll lean "heavily" on special-teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia this season after Bisaccia was given the title of assistant head coach.
Cornerback Tracy Porter, whose pick-six sealed the New Orleans Saints' Super Bowl XLIV victory over the Indianapolis Colts, hasn't gotten around to talking trash to new Denver teammate Peyton Manning, the man who threw that ball. "I think once we finally get settled in we'll have enough time to shoot that little joke in," Porter told USA Today. "As of right now, we're both still learning."
The Broncos' trade of backup cornerback Cassius Vaughn to Indianapolis for little-used fullback Chris Gronkowski is most significant for the fact that it's Matt Russell's first trade since taking over as director of player personnel, Mike Klis notes.
Defensive end Elvis Dumervil is "more in shape" than at this point last year, he tells the Broncos' official site, and credits the team's strength coach and a new nutrition plan.
After a Pro Bowl rookie season, Broncos linebacker Von Miller landed the Denver Athletic Club's Colorado Athlete of the Year award.
Kansas City Chiefs
Coach Romeo Crennel, who grew up in a military family, and linebacker Caleb Campbell, a West Point grad who holds the rank of lieutenant in the U.S. Army, were among a Chiefs contingent that visited a junior high school at nearby Fort Leavenworth.
Oakland Raiders
With more talent on his side of the ball than on defense, new Raiders offensive coordinator Greg Knapp is going to need to keep the unit humming and take some pressure off Dennis Allen's defense, Mark Purdy writes in the San Jose Mercury News.
Mike Goodson, an offseason trade acquisition from Carolina, is making an impression with coaches in his quest to win the backup running back job.
San Diego Chargers
General manager A.J. Smith laughed off Las Vegas picking the Chargers to finish second in the division, behind Denver. "I couldn't care less about predictions," Smith told U-T San Diego on Wednesday. "It's fun to do, and it stimulates conversation."
Coach Norv Turner told season-ticket holders during a conference call that he'll lean "heavily" on special-teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia this season after Bisaccia was given the title of assistant head coach.
Denver Broncos
Champ Bailey says he doesn't anticipate a move to safety. "I'm a realist, though, if I see myself on tape and I think it's time to make a move, I'll know it's time to make a move, I'll be the first to see it, I'll be the first to know it," Bailey said, smiling. "In my mind, though, I might not say it right away, I might wait for somebody to ask."
Veteran defensive tackle Justin Bannan tells Lindsay Jones that he "tries not to" think too much about what effect playing football might have on his body down the road.
Kansas City Chiefs
Starting safeties Eric Berry and Kendrick Lewis aren't on the field for this week's practices, but are seemingly on course to be back for training camp, the Kansas City Star reports.
The Chiefs signed free-agent wide receiver Aaron Weaver, who played collegiately at Syracuse in 2010 but missed 2011 with a knee injury.
Oakland Raiders
In a (very) brief statement following the Raiders' organized team activities Tuesday, linebacker Rolando McClain apologized for "the bad publicity that's been put out there" following his legal troubles, CSN Bay Area reports. McClain's teammates have said the linebacker seems unfazed by the recent events.
The new defensive scheme is getting good reviews from players so far, according to the Raiders' official site.
Tight end David Ausberry has added 15 pounds this offseason and is up to 265 as he focuses on claiming a starting role, CBSSports.com reports.
San Diego Chargers
A rules change that will require all players to wear knee and thigh pads beginning in 2013 is "dumb," cornerback Quentin Jammer told U-T San Diego.
Philip Rivers lost pal and backup Billy Volek in a salary-cap move over the offseason, but a reunion with Charlie Whitehurst has the Chargers' starting quarterback feeling pretty comfortable, Kevin Acee writes.
Champ Bailey says he doesn't anticipate a move to safety. "I'm a realist, though, if I see myself on tape and I think it's time to make a move, I'll know it's time to make a move, I'll be the first to see it, I'll be the first to know it," Bailey said, smiling. "In my mind, though, I might not say it right away, I might wait for somebody to ask."
Veteran defensive tackle Justin Bannan tells Lindsay Jones that he "tries not to" think too much about what effect playing football might have on his body down the road.
Kansas City Chiefs
Starting safeties Eric Berry and Kendrick Lewis aren't on the field for this week's practices, but are seemingly on course to be back for training camp, the Kansas City Star reports.
The Chiefs signed free-agent wide receiver Aaron Weaver, who played collegiately at Syracuse in 2010 but missed 2011 with a knee injury.
Oakland Raiders
In a (very) brief statement following the Raiders' organized team activities Tuesday, linebacker Rolando McClain apologized for "the bad publicity that's been put out there" following his legal troubles, CSN Bay Area reports. McClain's teammates have said the linebacker seems unfazed by the recent events.
The new defensive scheme is getting good reviews from players so far, according to the Raiders' official site.
Tight end David Ausberry has added 15 pounds this offseason and is up to 265 as he focuses on claiming a starting role, CBSSports.com reports.
San Diego Chargers
A rules change that will require all players to wear knee and thigh pads beginning in 2013 is "dumb," cornerback Quentin Jammer told U-T San Diego.
Philip Rivers lost pal and backup Billy Volek in a salary-cap move over the offseason, but a reunion with Charlie Whitehurst has the Chargers' starting quarterback feeling pretty comfortable, Kevin Acee writes.
There were plenty of big names who lost a good portion of last season to injuries. Some were on teams that could've made postseason runs. Others were in positions to help their respective squads enjoy breakthrough years, writes Jeffri Chadiha.
The bigger challenge in this space is deciding which injured players will have the most impact. Denver's Peyton Manning might be the odds-on favorite, but it's also hard to ignore his peers.
Chadiha includes two other AFC West players in his list of the 10 best players who had their seasons shortened last year, along with how they'll impact their respective teams this fall.
The bigger challenge in this space is deciding which injured players will have the most impact. Denver's Peyton Manning might be the odds-on favorite, but it's also hard to ignore his peers.
Chadiha includes two other AFC West players in his list of the 10 best players who had their seasons shortened last year, along with how they'll impact their respective teams this fall.
AFC West links: Cassel says he's a good QB
May, 22, 2012
May 22
9:50
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Denver Broncos
Peyton Manning's presence will undoubtedly improve Willis McGahee's rushing stats -- at least that's what McGahee is preaching, and Denver Post columnist Mark Kiszla says the Broncos running back has a sermon he can back up.
Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams' trial on driving under the influence and traffic charges ended Monday in a mistrial.
Who is the most indispensable player to his team in the NFL today? At least three NFL.com writers answer the question by saying the Broncos cannot succeed in 2012 without Manning under center.
Kansas City Chiefs
Matt Cassel defends his position as the Chiefs' starting quarterback, telling Sports Radio 610 in Kansas City: “I believe in myself, and I know I’m a good quarterback. Of course there are going to be criticisms and everything like that, and that’s part of the business. ... And hopefully it’s all going to go in the right direction, we’re going to win a lot of ball games, get in the playoffs, and ideally we’d like to win a Super Bowl.”
Arrowhead Pride takes a closer look at fourth-round pick, wide receiver Devon "Wiggles" Wylie out of Fresno State.
The Chiefs are using Dexter McCluster as a wideout -- for now. The Kansas City Star's Adam Teicher has more observations from practice.
Oakland Raiders
San Jose Mercury News' Tim Kawakami says Raiders middle linebacker Rolando McClain's actions and his spotty play have shown he's the polar opposite of the kinds of players GM Reggie McKenzie and new coach Dennis Allen want in their locker room.
If there were such a thing as an offseason practice MVP, fifth-round draft pick Juron Criner would walk away with the trophy. Criner, a rookie out of Arizona, even impressed Raiders quarterback Carson Palmer.
San Diego Chargers
The Chargers are in need of a third-down back, and it just so happens the best running back in franchise history and the fifth-leading rusher in NFL history is looking for a team to join. GM A.J. Smith should set aside past differences and bring LaDainian Tomlinson back, says the North County Times' Jay Paris.
Opinions vary on funding for a new Chargers stadium. San Diego’s four major mayoral candidates state their cases.
Peyton Manning's presence will undoubtedly improve Willis McGahee's rushing stats -- at least that's what McGahee is preaching, and Denver Post columnist Mark Kiszla says the Broncos running back has a sermon he can back up.
Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams' trial on driving under the influence and traffic charges ended Monday in a mistrial.
Who is the most indispensable player to his team in the NFL today? At least three NFL.com writers answer the question by saying the Broncos cannot succeed in 2012 without Manning under center.
Kansas City Chiefs
Matt Cassel defends his position as the Chiefs' starting quarterback, telling Sports Radio 610 in Kansas City: “I believe in myself, and I know I’m a good quarterback. Of course there are going to be criticisms and everything like that, and that’s part of the business. ... And hopefully it’s all going to go in the right direction, we’re going to win a lot of ball games, get in the playoffs, and ideally we’d like to win a Super Bowl.”
Arrowhead Pride takes a closer look at fourth-round pick, wide receiver Devon "Wiggles" Wylie out of Fresno State.
The Chiefs are using Dexter McCluster as a wideout -- for now. The Kansas City Star's Adam Teicher has more observations from practice.
Oakland Raiders
San Jose Mercury News' Tim Kawakami says Raiders middle linebacker Rolando McClain's actions and his spotty play have shown he's the polar opposite of the kinds of players GM Reggie McKenzie and new coach Dennis Allen want in their locker room.
If there were such a thing as an offseason practice MVP, fifth-round draft pick Juron Criner would walk away with the trophy. Criner, a rookie out of Arizona, even impressed Raiders quarterback Carson Palmer.
San Diego Chargers
The Chargers are in need of a third-down back, and it just so happens the best running back in franchise history and the fifth-leading rusher in NFL history is looking for a team to join. GM A.J. Smith should set aside past differences and bring LaDainian Tomlinson back, says the North County Times' Jay Paris.
Opinions vary on funding for a new Chargers stadium. San Diego’s four major mayoral candidates state their cases.
AFC West links: Is this San Diego's year?
May, 21, 2012
May 21
10:02
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Denver Broncos
Mike Klis of The Denver Post: "The meshing of [John] Fox and [Peyton] Manning, and Manning and the Broncos, begins today with the Broncos' first organized team activity (OTA) workout at their Dove Valley headquarters."
Denver has reportedly started talks on a contract extension with left tackle Ryan Clady.
Kansas City Chiefs
Josh Looney of KCChiefs.com offers a preview of the team's OTAs that start Monday.
SI.com's Don Banks includes running back Jamaal Charles among those players primed for a bounce-back season in 2012.
Oakland Raiders
Toni Monkovic of The New York Times' Fifth Down Blog asks: "To put it in today’s terms, was the Raiders’ use of illegal pads [back in the day] on par or even worse than the Saints’ bounty system?"
Wide receiver Denarius Moore says he's fine with receiving added attention from defensive backs.
San Diego Chargers
Kevin Acee of U-T San Diego: "For eight long years, since just after the dawn of the A.J. Smith period, we’ve been teased with every reason to believe that this is the year a Chargers team that looks so good will actually be good enough. And so … with the caution that this could well be like the movie trailer that promises thrills and chills only to turn out to be 'John Carter,' I am intrigued enough by what I see and hear to deliver the teasing news that the Chargers have perhaps found the final pieces of the puzzle."
Scott Bair of the North County Times goes one-on-one with rookie safety Brandon Taylor.
Mike Klis of The Denver Post: "The meshing of [John] Fox and [Peyton] Manning, and Manning and the Broncos, begins today with the Broncos' first organized team activity (OTA) workout at their Dove Valley headquarters."
Denver has reportedly started talks on a contract extension with left tackle Ryan Clady.
Kansas City Chiefs
Josh Looney of KCChiefs.com offers a preview of the team's OTAs that start Monday.
SI.com's Don Banks includes running back Jamaal Charles among those players primed for a bounce-back season in 2012.
Oakland Raiders
Toni Monkovic of The New York Times' Fifth Down Blog asks: "To put it in today’s terms, was the Raiders’ use of illegal pads [back in the day] on par or even worse than the Saints’ bounty system?"
Wide receiver Denarius Moore says he's fine with receiving added attention from defensive backs.
San Diego Chargers
Kevin Acee of U-T San Diego: "For eight long years, since just after the dawn of the A.J. Smith period, we’ve been teased with every reason to believe that this is the year a Chargers team that looks so good will actually be good enough. And so … with the caution that this could well be like the movie trailer that promises thrills and chills only to turn out to be 'John Carter,' I am intrigued enough by what I see and hear to deliver the teasing news that the Chargers have perhaps found the final pieces of the puzzle."
Scott Bair of the North County Times goes one-on-one with rookie safety Brandon Taylor.
Weekend mail call:
MD Ellis from Marysville, Calif., wants to know if the Oakland Raiders could trade a receiver such as Louis Murphy because of fifth-round pick Juron Criner.
Bill Williamson: Perhaps late in the preseason, something could happen since Murphy is a free agent after next season. But I think the most likely situation is Oakland will keep all of their young receivers and see how it develops. It’s a good, solid group. But it needs some players to stand out, so the Raiders may be better off keeping everyone and seeing how it plays out.
Jon from Fort Dodge, Iowa wants to know if I think the Denver Broncos have a realistic chance to make the Super Bowl.
BW: If Peyton Manning's neck issues are behind him, I think Denver has a chance to be very competitive and they should be a fairly strong team. But there are more talented teams in the AFC West and Denver has the second toughest schedule in the NFL. For Denver to get to the Super Bowl it will need its defense to continue to make huge strides, have great health and some good fortune.
Kurt from Seattle wants to know what I think about Kansas City Chiefs receivers coach Nick Sirianni.
BW: Sirianni has been highly regarded in Kansas City. He was the offensive quality control coach for the past three years. He helped in several different areas and he was credited for helping Matt Cassel during his strong season in 2010. I think Sirianni certainly can be a coach to look for as an offensive coordinator candidate in the coming seasons.
MD Ellis from Marysville, Calif., wants to know if the Oakland Raiders could trade a receiver such as Louis Murphy because of fifth-round pick Juron Criner.
Bill Williamson: Perhaps late in the preseason, something could happen since Murphy is a free agent after next season. But I think the most likely situation is Oakland will keep all of their young receivers and see how it develops. It’s a good, solid group. But it needs some players to stand out, so the Raiders may be better off keeping everyone and seeing how it plays out.
Jon from Fort Dodge, Iowa wants to know if I think the Denver Broncos have a realistic chance to make the Super Bowl.
BW: If Peyton Manning's neck issues are behind him, I think Denver has a chance to be very competitive and they should be a fairly strong team. But there are more talented teams in the AFC West and Denver has the second toughest schedule in the NFL. For Denver to get to the Super Bowl it will need its defense to continue to make huge strides, have great health and some good fortune.
Kurt from Seattle wants to know what I think about Kansas City Chiefs receivers coach Nick Sirianni.
BW: Sirianni has been highly regarded in Kansas City. He was the offensive quality control coach for the past three years. He helped in several different areas and he was credited for helping Matt Cassel during his strong season in 2010. I think Sirianni certainly can be a coach to look for as an offensive coordinator candidate in the coming seasons.
Yeremiah Bell will not be the one who provides depth to the Kansas City Chiefs’ secondary.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the safety has signed with the New York Jets. Bell visited the Chiefs on Wednesday, and they were one of four teams he was considering.
The Chiefs were interested in Bell as a third safety. The Chiefs also looked at veteran O.J. Atogwe.
In other AFC West news:
Here is a call for the Raiders to cut troubled middle linebacker Rolando McClain. He was the No. 8 overall pick in the 2010 draft. He has been a disappointment on the field and a distraction off it.
Once again, in a radio interview, LaDainian Tomlinson, said he’d consider playing for the Chargers again. And, once again, I just can’t see that happening.
New Denver defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio, in radio interview, said he expects his unit to be a top-10 defense. For that to be possible, the defensive tackles would have to mesh quickly.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the safety has signed with the New York Jets. Bell visited the Chiefs on Wednesday, and they were one of four teams he was considering.
The Chiefs were interested in Bell as a third safety. The Chiefs also looked at veteran O.J. Atogwe.
In other AFC West news:
Here is a call for the Raiders to cut troubled middle linebacker Rolando McClain. He was the No. 8 overall pick in the 2010 draft. He has been a disappointment on the field and a distraction off it.
Once again, in a radio interview, LaDainian Tomlinson, said he’d consider playing for the Chargers again. And, once again, I just can’t see that happening.
New Denver defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio, in radio interview, said he expects his unit to be a top-10 defense. For that to be possible, the defensive tackles would have to mesh quickly.
Here are some highlights from our AFC West chat, held earlier Thursday:
Denver
McNutty from Seattle: Does the signing of [Joel] Dreessen and [Jacob] Tamme (Dreesetamme) mean that Denver is not counting on Julius Thomas this year?
Bill Williamson: They are giving Thomas time. Tamme and Dreessen are ready to go. Thomas is a developmental player. If he comes on strong (as he did in camp last year before he was injured), he'll get his chance.
Kansas City
Atilla from St. Louis: Bill - what do you see that makes you believe that [Jon] Baldwin can make the step to become a better than average receiver. I was not impressed with the fight issues last year, and I hoping he grew from that experience. His best catch was one that was nullified against Denver behind the safety's back.
BW: He has big ability and he fits the offense. He has a chance. But he has to keep his head on straight.
Oakland
Scott Seymour from Anaheim, Calif.: Which AFC West team has the best receiver group?
BW: I think Oakland has a chance to be the deepest in the division. Really, it's a young group of receivers throughout the division and I want to see which group steps up. But I do like how deep Oakland's receivers are.
San Diego
Sergio from Tijuana, Mexico: Hi Bill, what expectations do you have for Robert Meachem, can he be this year's Reggie Bush and live up to expectations with more playing time in SD?
BW: He will be given a huge opportunity. He has great speed and he is a vertical threat. That is perfect for Philip Rivers' arm and Norv Turner's scheme. They expect him to be a difference maker. I think health is the key for him.
Denver
McNutty from Seattle: Does the signing of [Joel] Dreessen and [Jacob] Tamme (Dreesetamme) mean that Denver is not counting on Julius Thomas this year?
Bill Williamson: They are giving Thomas time. Tamme and Dreessen are ready to go. Thomas is a developmental player. If he comes on strong (as he did in camp last year before he was injured), he'll get his chance.
Kansas City
Atilla from St. Louis: Bill - what do you see that makes you believe that [Jon] Baldwin can make the step to become a better than average receiver. I was not impressed with the fight issues last year, and I hoping he grew from that experience. His best catch was one that was nullified against Denver behind the safety's back.
BW: He has big ability and he fits the offense. He has a chance. But he has to keep his head on straight.
Oakland
Scott Seymour from Anaheim, Calif.: Which AFC West team has the best receiver group?
BW: I think Oakland has a chance to be the deepest in the division. Really, it's a young group of receivers throughout the division and I want to see which group steps up. But I do like how deep Oakland's receivers are.
San Diego
Sergio from Tijuana, Mexico: Hi Bill, what expectations do you have for Robert Meachem, can he be this year's Reggie Bush and live up to expectations with more playing time in SD?
BW: He will be given a huge opportunity. He has great speed and he is a vertical threat. That is perfect for Philip Rivers' arm and Norv Turner's scheme. They expect him to be a difference maker. I think health is the key for him.
The Chiefs announced they have signed tackle Donald Stephenson, a third-round pick.
The Chiefs’ lone remaining unsigned draft pick is nose tackle Dontari Poe. He was the No. 11 pick in the draft.
San Diego has signed its entire draft class.
In other AFC West news:
The co-defendant of Rolando McClain in an Alabama assault case has pleaded guilty and has agreed to testify against McClain. The Raiders linebacker is on trial today in his hometown.
Former Miami safety Yeremiah Bell is reportedly considering four teams and the Chiefs are one of them. He visited Kansas City this week and would provide depth for the Chiefs.
Junior Seau’s restaurant near Qualcomm Stadium has shut down. Seau committed suicide on May 2. It was open since 1996.
The Denver Post reports the Broncos are close to deals with their top draft picks, defensive tackle Derek Wolfe and quarterback Brock Osweiler.
Cutting down on turnovers is a key in San Diego.
Kansas City general manager Scott Pioli reiterates his support of quarterback Matt Cassel in a radio interview.
ESPN’s Jeffri Chadiha writes about Kansas City owner Clark Hunt and what Hunt needs to do in his role.
The Chiefs’ lone remaining unsigned draft pick is nose tackle Dontari Poe. He was the No. 11 pick in the draft.
San Diego has signed its entire draft class.
In other AFC West news:
The co-defendant of Rolando McClain in an Alabama assault case has pleaded guilty and has agreed to testify against McClain. The Raiders linebacker is on trial today in his hometown.
Former Miami safety Yeremiah Bell is reportedly considering four teams and the Chiefs are one of them. He visited Kansas City this week and would provide depth for the Chiefs.
Junior Seau’s restaurant near Qualcomm Stadium has shut down. Seau committed suicide on May 2. It was open since 1996.
The Denver Post reports the Broncos are close to deals with their top draft picks, defensive tackle Derek Wolfe and quarterback Brock Osweiler.
Cutting down on turnovers is a key in San Diego.
Kansas City general manager Scott Pioli reiterates his support of quarterback Matt Cassel in a radio interview.
ESPN’s Jeffri Chadiha writes about Kansas City owner Clark Hunt and what Hunt needs to do in his role.
According to the fine folks who took our AFC West poll this week, new Oakland backup quarterback Matt Leinart is the best backup in the AFC West.
We asked readers this week who they think is the best backup quarterback in the division. All four backups are new in 2012. In addition to Leinart in Oakland, Caleb Hanie is in Denver, Brady Quinn is in Kansas City and Charlie Whitehurst is the backup in San Diego.
Overall, it is not a good group that backs up a good group of starters in the division. Still, in our poll, Leinart received 38 percent of the vote as of 2:05 p.m. ET Wednesday. Quinn received 35 percent of the vote, Whitehurst received 15 percent and Hanie received 11 percent. Yes, that adds up to 99 percent. That means the final percent was split too evenly to be assigned to one player.
I can see why Leinart won the vote. He fits the West Coast offense and he has history with Oakland offensive coordinator Greg Knapp and starter Carson Palmer. Still, like any of these backups, I don’t see Leinart having long-term success if he has to spell Palmer for an extended period.
This is how I listed the group in a recent post: Quinn, Leinart, Hanie and Whitehurst. But they are closely bunched so I can’t argue too much with these poll results. Thanks to everyone who played along.
We asked readers this week who they think is the best backup quarterback in the division. All four backups are new in 2012. In addition to Leinart in Oakland, Caleb Hanie is in Denver, Brady Quinn is in Kansas City and Charlie Whitehurst is the backup in San Diego.
Overall, it is not a good group that backs up a good group of starters in the division. Still, in our poll, Leinart received 38 percent of the vote as of 2:05 p.m. ET Wednesday. Quinn received 35 percent of the vote, Whitehurst received 15 percent and Hanie received 11 percent. Yes, that adds up to 99 percent. That means the final percent was split too evenly to be assigned to one player.
I can see why Leinart won the vote. He fits the West Coast offense and he has history with Oakland offensive coordinator Greg Knapp and starter Carson Palmer. Still, like any of these backups, I don’t see Leinart having long-term success if he has to spell Palmer for an extended period.
This is how I listed the group in a recent post: Quinn, Leinart, Hanie and Whitehurst. But they are closely bunched so I can’t argue too much with these poll results. Thanks to everyone who played along.
The Kansas City Chiefs have signed safety DeQuan Menzie. He was a fifth-round pick. The Chiefs have six of their eight draft picks signed.
The Chiefs also announced they signed free agents, defensive back Dominique Ellis, tight end Martin Rucker, offensive lineman Rich Ranglin and linebacker Leon Williams. Rucker and Williams are former draft picks of the Browns when current Chiefs’ coach Romeo Crennel was the coach in Cleveland.
In other AFC West notes:
— Video has emerged from the incident that led to the arrest of Oakland middle linebacker Rolando McClain in his hometown in Alabama last fall. McClain will go to trial in the case Thursday.
— Oakland quarterback Carson Palmer helps explains why Terrell Owens worked out with Palmer and some Oakland receivers this offseason. That doesn’t mean Owens is coming to Oakland’s crowded receiver’s room.
— As expected, Denver kicker Matt Prater is not participating in the team’s OTAs. He has not signed his franchise tag, so missing OTAs is normal procedure.
— In a radio interview, Oakland safety Tyvon Branch said he is not focusing on getting a long-term deal, even though he’d like on. Branch recently signed his franchise tender and he has rejoined the team.
— The home of former San Diego star linebacker Junior Seau was burglarized five days after Seau committed suicide.
The Chiefs also announced they signed free agents, defensive back Dominique Ellis, tight end Martin Rucker, offensive lineman Rich Ranglin and linebacker Leon Williams. Rucker and Williams are former draft picks of the Browns when current Chiefs’ coach Romeo Crennel was the coach in Cleveland.
In other AFC West notes:
— Video has emerged from the incident that led to the arrest of Oakland middle linebacker Rolando McClain in his hometown in Alabama last fall. McClain will go to trial in the case Thursday.
— Oakland quarterback Carson Palmer helps explains why Terrell Owens worked out with Palmer and some Oakland receivers this offseason. That doesn’t mean Owens is coming to Oakland’s crowded receiver’s room.
— As expected, Denver kicker Matt Prater is not participating in the team’s OTAs. He has not signed his franchise tag, so missing OTAs is normal procedure.
— In a radio interview, Oakland safety Tyvon Branch said he is not focusing on getting a long-term deal, even though he’d like on. Branch recently signed his franchise tender and he has rejoined the team.
— The home of former San Diego star linebacker Junior Seau was burglarized five days after Seau committed suicide.
The Kansas City Chiefs have reportedly signed second-round pick guard Jeff Allen. He would be the fifth of eight Kansas City picks to sign. Allen will likely be a key backup this season.
Tight end Martin Rucker said he has signed with the Chiefs. He tried out for the team last weekend. He was a draft pick in Cleveland four years ago when the Browns were coached by current Chiefs’ coach Romeo Crennel.
John Elway explained to Broncos’ fans why he took Arizona State quarterback Brock Osweiler in the second round of the April draft.
Tight end Martin Rucker said he has signed with the Chiefs. He tried out for the team last weekend. He was a draft pick in Cleveland four years ago when the Browns were coached by current Chiefs’ coach Romeo Crennel.
John Elway explained to Broncos’ fans why he took Arizona State quarterback Brock Osweiler in the second round of the April draft.
AFC West blogger Bill Williamson talks about the impact that the new CBA is having on rookie signings.
Editor’s note: Because Bill Williamson traveled to Oakland on Tuesday, this video was produced Monday. It was made prior to the Chargers signing third-round pick Brandon Taylor. The Chargers have now signed their complete draft class.
» NFC pressure points: West | North | South | East
» AFC pressure points: West | North | South | East
Examining who faces the most challenging season for the Chiefs and why.
I wish I could be creative here and point the finger at someone other than Matt Cassel in Kansas City.
I just can’t.
No one is facing more of a pressure situation in Kansas City than Cassel heading into the 2012 season. Sure, Kansas City general manager Scott Pioli (who traded for Cassel three years ago) will feel the heat if Cassel fails in 2012. But Pioli probably will not be fired if Cassel fails in 2012. Pioli probably will be given an opportunity to replace Cassel.
However, if Cassel fails this season, he probably will lose his job. Hence, the immense pressure.
The Chiefs showed confidence in Cassel this offseason when they built around him in free agency and the draft instead of replacing him. Kansas City has put together a strong team, one that appears to have few holes. It is set up to make a playoff run.
But Cassel has to lead it there. Again, it’s all on him. The pieces are there. If Cassel doesn’t seize the moment, he’ll pay for it by losing his job.
» AFC pressure points: West | North | South | East
Examining who faces the most challenging season for the Chiefs and why.
I wish I could be creative here and point the finger at someone other than Matt Cassel in Kansas City.
I just can’t.
No one is facing more of a pressure situation in Kansas City than Cassel heading into the 2012 season. Sure, Kansas City general manager Scott Pioli (who traded for Cassel three years ago) will feel the heat if Cassel fails in 2012. But Pioli probably will not be fired if Cassel fails in 2012. Pioli probably will be given an opportunity to replace Cassel.
However, if Cassel fails this season, he probably will lose his job. Hence, the immense pressure.
The Chiefs showed confidence in Cassel this offseason when they built around him in free agency and the draft instead of replacing him. Kansas City has put together a strong team, one that appears to have few holes. It is set up to make a playoff run.
But Cassel has to lead it there. Again, it’s all on him. The pieces are there. If Cassel doesn’t seize the moment, he’ll pay for it by losing his job.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Bill Williamson
Williamson joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the Denver Broncos for the Denver Post. He previously covered the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks.
