IMPACT: Will Hiring a Defensive Coordinator Be Schottenheimer's First Move?

The Kansas City Chiefs defense has been a sore spot for the team in recent years, and fans are eagerly awaiting a change in leadership. Many believe that hiring a defensive coordinator will be Head Coach Andy Reid's first move to address the issue. However, there are several factors to consider before making such a decision, including the Chiefs' current defensive staff, the availability of qualified candidates, and the potential impact on the team's overall performance.

Current Defensive Staff

The Chiefs' current defensive staff is led by Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who has been with the team since 2019. Spagnuolo has a long and successful track record as a defensive coordinator, having won two Super Bowls with the New York Giants. However, the Chiefs' defense has struggled under his leadership, ranking near the bottom of the league in several key metrics.

There are several reasons for the Chiefs' defensive struggles. One issue is the lack of talent on the defensive line. The Chiefs have not had a consistent pass rush in recent years, and they have struggled to stop the run. Another issue is the team's poor tackling. The Chiefs have missed far too many tackles in recent seasons, which has led to big plays for opposing offenses.

Availability of Qualified Candidates

If the Chiefs decide to fire Spagnuolo, they will need to find a qualified replacement. However, there are not many experienced defensive coordinators available on the market. Some of the top candidates, such as Vic Fangio and Rex Ryan, are already employed by other teams. The Chiefs may have to settle for a less experienced candidate, which could be a risky move.

Potential Impact on the Team

Hiring a new defensive coordinator could have a significant impact on the Chiefs' overall performance. A good defensive coordinator can help to improve the team's defense, which would make them a more competitive team. However, a bad defensive coordinator could make the team even worse. The Chiefs need to be careful in their decision-making process.

Conclusion

The decision of whether or not to hire a defensive coordinator is a difficult one for the Chiefs. There are several factors to consider, including the current defensive staff, the availability of qualified candidates, and the potential impact on the team's overall performance. The Chiefs need to weigh all of these factors carefully before making a decision.

If the Chiefs do decide to hire a defensive coordinator, it is important to give the new coordinator time to implement his system. It may take some time for the defense to improve, and the Chiefs need to be patient. However, if the new coordinator is successful, it could have a major impact on the team's overall performance.