It’s been a long off-season, but training camp will be here before you know it. While nothing in preseason is certain, there are “certain“ players who are definitely worth watching. Since lists, in their own right, are boring, this list will have a special spin on it. We’ll view these prospects through the lens of common sayings and expressions, it’s time to get colloquial y’all.
Something Old – DeVaunte Bausby
Some of you may recall Bausby as a huge Chiefs fan and former training camp stand-out, who got hurt and wound up in Chicago. After a couple years there, Bausby returns to the Chiefs under similar circumstances. If he can stay healthy, Bausby has the skills to succeed in Chiefs defense.
Something New – Patrick Mahomes
If you tell me that you’re a Chiefs fan, who’s paying attention to training camp, and you’re not watching Patrick Mahomes, I won’t believe you. Even his detractors, among the fans, will be very curious to see how quickly he develops. He’s hands down the best story going into training camp.
Something Borrowed – Bennie Logan
Andy Reid’s old team was kind enough to loan the Chiefs their new starting NT. While Logan may only be in town for the year, he brings with him a marked ability to stop the run. If he shows up big in training camp, fans can start dreaming of a truly dominant defense, not just a pass stopping machine that gives up easy runs.
Something Blue – Demarcus Robinson
All eyes should be glued on the former Florida (blue uniforms) stand-out. With Maclin gone, Robinson is Chiefs‘ best chance at increased production from the WR core. Hill and Conley are known commodities, Wilson is what he is, but Robinson’s story has yet to be written. With any luck, it’ll be an interesting one. Aside from Hill, I think he’s the WR who’s most likely to gain separation on his routes.
Chip On His Shoulder – Alex Smith
Smith has been a significant part of restoring the Chiefs franchise, and represents the best QB they’ve had since Trent Green. While he knew that the drafting of Mahomes was coming, that can’t have made it any easier. The Chiefs may be preparing to move on from Smith, but he’s not the kind of guy to go quietly. He’s going to put up a heck of fight and I, for one, can’t wait to see what a little pressure can do to elevate Smith’s game.
Don’t Count Your Chickens Before They’re Hatched – Kareem Hunt
I believe that Hunt’s going to be a good RB, but this is the NFL. Adjusting to the pros will not be easy for Toledo’s star. Chargers’ first round pick, Melvin Gordon, certainly took some time to come into his own. His first year was a disaster, but he played pretty well last year. I like Hunt enough to want other fans to like him. I’d hate to see fans turn on him too soon, just because he got over-hyped. I’m keeping my expectations low, so I can, hopefully, be pleasantly surprised.
Dropping Like Flies – The LBs
Justin March can’t seem to stay healthy, DJ’s coming off an Achilles rupture, and Nicholas is coming off a patella tear. Mauga, Smith and Houston all have injury histories as well. All that, without even mentioning Hali’s knees. While other fans will be watching to see which starters emerge from the LB core, I’ll just be watching the injury report, hoping half the LBs don’t wind up on it.
Fools Gold – Ross Travis
Not every TE with Travis in his name can be elite. Fans will be tantalized by early reports of Ross’ success, but don’t let it fool you. Once the pads come on, he’s just another Demetrius Harris. Maybe that’ll change some day, but until I see it in a real game, I’m not going to count on Travis for anything, outside of STs.
Ugly Duckling – Leon McQuay III
A ton of CBs have successfully transitioned to S. The record, the other way around, is not so stellar, yet the Chiefs will attempt to do just that with McQuay. Don’t expect Leon to turn any heads early (unless fans just can’t bear to watch), but as training camp wears on, watch his progress. Chiefs drafted McQuay the body, not McQuay the football player. If they’re right, and they can fix his abysmal tackling technique, and also teach him how to mirror routes, this ugly duckling could turn into a beautiful Swan. Then again, he could just prove to be a mangy duck (can Duck’s get mange?).
Your Mama’s So Fat – Damien Mama
While weight issues have dogged Mama, there’s no doubt that he’s the Chiefs most promising UDFA this year. With Zach Fulton in a contract year, and Parker Ehinger coming off an injury, Mama has an opportunity to win a roster spot, and maybe even a starting job. Of course, if he wants to do that, he’ll have to keep his weight under control. This was a persistent issue, throughout his college career, but maybe the chance at a big check will motivate him to eat right.
These are some of the players that I’ll be watching during training camp. Who are you guys interested in? What are some of your favorite expressions? Let me know in the comments. Go Chiefs!
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