5 breakout stars to watch for Kansas City Chiefs in 2021

The Kansas City Chiefs boast among the most star-studded rosters in the NFL, but there are several players who could break out in expanded roles in 2021

The Kansas City Chiefs, led by MVP Patrick Mahomes, boast one of the most electrifying offenses in the NFL and a bourgeoning defense with playmakers at all three levels, but just below the surface, there are several young players who could breakout.

After making consecutive trips to the Super Bowl, including defeating the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV, the Chiefs remain prohibitive favorites to return and represent the AFC for the third consecutive year.

Wide receiver Tyreek Hill, tight end Travis Kelce, and running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire form an explosive offensive corps, but a couple of young wide receivers could each push for 1,000 receiving yards following Sammy Watkins’ departure and because of Mahomes’ prolific play.

Meanwhile, on defense, Jarran Reed will give the pass-rush a significant boost, but so too could a couple of young players with lofty potential.

Five players who could be breakout stars for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2021:

5) Mike Danna. DE

Danna, chosen by the Chiefs in the fifth-round of last year’s NFL Draft, could be in line for an expanded role in 2021.

As a rookie, Danna flashed a high-motor at times but appeared in only 31 percent of the Chiefs’ defensive snaps, which was third among Kansas City’s defensive ends. If he sees more playing time in 2021, it’s easy to see Danna build on his three sacks, nine hurries, and 15 total pressures he generated in 184 pass-rush snaps in 2020.

The Chiefs struggled to generate pressure in the Super Bowl against the game’s eventual MVP Tom Brady, but Danna could be a focal point of the pass rush’s resurgence this fall.