Arrowhead Sports

Description

February 22nd – 3:17 PM The free agency snapshots for each of the offensive positions are officially in the books. As we move to the defensive side of the football, we’re on pace to preview close to 100 unrestricted free agents (almost half of the 235 players set to become UFAs). That’s not a bad start, and it should give us a solid base before the 2010 offseason kicks into high gear. On the defensive side of the football, we’ll begin where the Chiefs emphasis has been each of the past two seasons. Kansas City has spent back-to-back top-five picks on defensive ends and there seems to be a solid foundation implemented at this position for the future. Add in some emerging young talent like Wallace Gilberry and Alex Magee lower in the depth chart and the positional alignments almost already look set for 2010. But free agency can’t be ignored, especially with the rumors that Chiefs fans are accustomed to hearing throughout last season and into this offseason - 10042/keep-an-eye-on-these-10-players Following the trade rumors only creates headaches for fans, particularly with Glenn Dorsey who’s been spoken highly of, in-house, this offseason. Just because the Chiefs appear steady at defensive end today, doesn’t mean that they will be tomorrow. Position swaps and acquisitions run rampant across the league. With that, let’s take a look at the veterans set to come available. Remember, these snapshots only cover the “knowns” – players who are set to become UFAs on March 5th. Teams can add to the free agent pool on a daily basis as they make transactions. KCChiefs.com Free Agency Snapshot Position: Defensive End Degree of Need: Low Chiefs Under Contract (6): Glenn Dorsey, Dion Gales (also listed as a DT), Wallace Gilberry, Bobby Greenwood, Tyson Jackson, Alex Magee *Chiefs Without Contracts (0): None Chiefs Who Opened Camp in 2009 (7): Alfonso Boone, Dorsey, Gales, Gilberry, Greenwood, Jackson, Magee *(UFA) – Unrestricted Free Agent; (RFA)—Restricted Free Agent; (ERFA) – Exclusive Rights Free Agent Whose Out There (restricted free agents excluded)? Julius Peppers (6-7, 283; age: 30) – Here’s the guy creating all of the headlines this offseason. From a media perspective, Peppers is the top unrestricted free agent set to come available this March. Keep in mind, however, that team views don’t always align with that of the media. Though technically listed as a defensive end for NFL roster purposes, the general thought is that Peppers will land as an outside linebacker for a team that runs a 3-4 defense. Naturally, that assumption never keeps Peppers’ name far from the attention of fans in Kansas City. There is plenty of debate to have regarding Peppers and a possible fit with Kansas City. The finances, the state of the Chiefs outside linebacking core and the potential ramifications of the unknowns which await a new CBA all loom in discussions. Then again, so does Peppers’ ability to churn out double-digit sack seasons on an annual basis (six of eight years Peppers has notched 10.0 or more sacks). Also, whoever lands Peppers can feel comfortable about spending money on a dependable player. Peppers has only missed six games in eight seasons as a pro.

Products & services

Similar companies nearby