In 2020, the Chiefs have the chance to cement themselves in history as back to back Super Bowl Champions, and after addressing their glaring needs at RB, LB, DB, and OL they have a real shot at doing so. While most rookies do not end up making major contributions, this group of has the potential to round out this team. Here is a list of the Chiefs new rookies and their potential impact in 2020.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire (RB)
500 rushing yards 500 recieving yards 5 touchdowns
Even though the Chiefs took Clyde with their 1st round pick, it probably won’t be until after Damien Williams’ departure that he becomes the bell cow RB we know he can be. With Andy Reid’s reluctance to include rookies in his offensive scheme, it is also unlikely that he will have a major role in the offense in 2020. Unlike the other players on this list, Clyde is coming into a position full of talent. However, with his immense talent and ability we could see him take over the majority of the RB snaps in week 8.
Willie Gay Jr. (LB)
90 combined tackles 60 solo tackles 4 forced fumbles 2 interceptions
Willie Gay Jr. has the potential to start week 1 of the 2020 NFL season. Even though his aggression and passion for the game has led to some questionable decisions in the past, it is what make him a great football player. His 1st round talent, hyper athleticism, and the Chiefs desperate lack of talent at the position creates the perfect scenario for Willie. One where he can come in, get real NFL reps, and can be guided by Mathieu and Clark (who have had their own issues in the past).
Lucas Niang (T)
Recovering from a torn labrum is a tall order for a rookie, especially one we could see transition from RT to LG. The Chiefs should not expect to have Niang on the line until the end of the 2020 season at the earliest.
L’Jarius Sneed (DB)
2 interceptions 7 passes deflected 20 combined tackles 10 solo tackles
Sneed is the perfect fit for this defense and could really help make a difference in 2020. Having played safety and CB in college should make him a centerpiece of Spag’s young DB core. With the help of Tyrann Mathieu, Sneed should blossom from a young rookie with freak athleticism and raw talent into one of the best all around players in the league.
Michael Danna (DE)
2 sacks 20 combined tackles 10 solo tackles
With his ability to stop the run and rush off the edge it is easy to see why the Chiefs drafted him. His ability to keep his pads level and set the edge is what made him stand out at Michigan State. However, with his lack of explosiveness and lack of balance, Chiefs fans shouldn’t expect much out of him his rookie year. With veteran players like Clark, Jones, and Okafor leading him and showing him the ropes, we could see him evolve into a rotational player in the near future.
BoPete Keyes (CB)
In a CB room with plenty of competition, it’s hard to see Keyes getting real playing time, but with the presumed departure of Breeland in 2021, he could see an increase in snaps. His skills need to be developed more than most, and his future in the NFL is questionable at best. However, with Tyrann Mathieu, Bashaud Breeland, and the above average CB coaches in Kansas City, Keyes could become a major piece of the Chiefs’ future.
