Chiefs: 3 2023 roster holes that could cost Patrick Mahomes a Super Bowl repeat

2. Cornerback depth

There’s little doubt surrounding the Chiefs’ ability to score points next year. Confidence in the team’s ability to stop opposing offenses is much shakier.

L’Jarius Sneed and Trent McDuffie both profile as above-average starters at cornerbacks. The big question mark is Jaylen Watson’s ability to hold up at the outside position opposite Sneed. His PFF average of 56.1 last season accurately illustrates how much the former seventh-round pick struggled last year.

Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo will look to protect Watson in a couple of different ways. He’ll be the cornerback who receives safety support most often on obvious passing downs. The Chiefs’ defense will also continue to employ exotic blitz packages in an effort to torment opposing quarterbacks.

That support might not be enough to help Watson produce average play at his starting spot. Don’t be surprised if the Chiefs’ front office runs the rule over free agency options to compete with Watson as the offseason rumbles along. Expecting him to start at corner for the full season is more of a hope than a plan for Kansas City.