After the 13-year veteran was released, multiple teams reached out. The Chiefs were one of them and with the Eric Bieniemy connection, the move would have made sense. Here are some reasons why AP was considered by the Chiefs.
Bieniemy knows Peterson well
Peterson was coached by Bieniemy during his time with the Vikings, having been paired together from 2007-2010. The pair have known each other since Peterson was a junior in high school.
AP would’ve fit in
The Chiefs running backs room is pretty young, with Clyde Edwards-Helaire (21), Darrel Williams (25), and Darwin Thompson (24). While Williams and Thompson are in their mid-twenties, neither has anywhere near the experience of Peterson. Peterson could’ve immediately brought a mentor presence for the entire room.
Peterson was good enough to steal snaps
Signing Peterson would’ve almost definitely taken snaps from the young trio. I think signing AP would’ve helped in the immediate short-term, but not the long-term. Taking valuable in-game experience away from Clyde, Darrel, and Darwin would be detrimental in the development of the young trio.
Ultimately Peterson went to Detroit, and I’m glad Veach didn’t make the call. I’m all for upgrading the roster, but we can’t be shortsighted in doing so.
