The Kansas City Chiefs picked up an impressive win over the Ravens in their season opener, starting off on the right foot on their journey to a third straight victory. As the team prepares for its Week 2 game against the Bengals, we’re getting a better idea of how the rotations might change.
One of the surprises for Chiefs fans in Week 1 was how little rookie safety Jaden Hicks was used. Hicks was one of the standout players of training camp and the preseason and was expected to be a bigger part of the defense. Instead, he was left unused on defense and used exclusively as a special teamer.
Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said that will likely change. The Chiefs were unable to utilize some of their defensive packages against Baltimore and Hicks will get more playing time as the season progresses.
Chiefs DC Steve Spagnuolo says S Jaden Hicks is in some packages they didn’t use against the Ravens. He should get more time as the season goes on, but Spagnuolo says the rotation was tight and the veteran players were favored in the game plan.
– Matt Derrick (@mattderrick) 12 September 2024
Spags is right to rely on experience in the season opener against one of the best teams in the league. The Chiefs faced an incredible 74 defensive snaps against the Ravens, and Justin Reid and Bryan Cook played every single one. Of course, that won’t be the case week after week.
It is especially important for the Chiefs to take a closer look at Hicks. Reid is entering the final year of his contract and it remains to be seen whether GM Brett Veach will give him a contract extension. Hicks is the expected successor to the position starting next season.
Hicks was selected in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft after spending three seasons at Washington State. He just turned 22 and has many years left to reach his full potential in the league, and it sounds like Chiefs fans will see him on the field soon.
