The Chiefs Give Starters Preseason Playing Time to Prepare for Regular Season
Speed of Games Prompts Chiefs to Prioritize Starters’ Playing Time
Coaches and Players Recognize the Importance of Preseason
As the regular season approaches, NFL teams are looking to fine-tune their skills and develop chemistry within their respective units. The Kansas City Chiefs, known for their explosive offense and elite quarterback play, are no exception. While some teams choose to sit their starters during the preseason in order to avoid injuries, the Chiefs have decided to give their first-string players some playing time. The primary reason for this decision is the speed of the games, even in the preseason, which helps the starters adjust to the pace ahead of the regular season opener.
The Kansas City Chiefs coaching staff believes that the tempo of the games played during the preseason provides a valuable opportunity for the starters to ramp up their efforts and get acclimated to the fast-paced nature of regular-season matchups. While the outcomes of preseason games may not count towards the team’s overall record, they still serve a purpose in preparing the players for the challenges that lie ahead.
Building Chemistry and Familiarity
Furthermore, allowing the starters to get some playing time in the preseason helps build chemistry and familiarity within the team. During the offseason, the Chiefs have made various roster changes, including adding new players through free agency and the draft. Giving the starters the chance to work together in live game situations allows them to develop a better understanding of each other’s tendencies and preferences on the field. This cohesion translates into more efficient and effective gameplay during the regular season.
The quarterback-receiver connection is especially important for the Chiefs. With Patrick Mahomes at the helm, the Chiefs’ offense is known for its explosive passing game. Mahomes, a former league MVP, possesses an unparalleled ability to make pinpoint throws to his receivers. By allowing Mahomes and his receiving corps to establish a rhythm and timing in live game situations, the Chiefs are maximizing their offensive potential and positioning themselves for success when it matters most.
Endorsement from the Players
The players themselves are in favor of the decision to give the starters some preseason playing time. They enjoy the opportunity to shake off the rust, make adjustments, and regain their form after a long offseason. Numerous Chiefs players have expressed their appreciation for the preseason games as a critical part of their preparation for the regular season.
Wide receiver Tyreek Hill, one of Mahomes’ primary targets, emphasized the importance of the preseason in building chemistry with his quarterback. Hill stated, “The preseason gives us a chance to get in sync with each other, to work on our timing and route-running. It’s an invaluable opportunity for us to fine-tune our connection before the games start to count.”
Defensive tackle Chris Jones also supported the team’s decision to play the starters in the preseason. Jones highlighted the defensive unit’s need to work together and develop cohesion early on, stating, “We need those preseason games to build trust and communication on the field. It’s about getting everyone on the same page and being accountable to one another.”
Summary
Recognizing the significance of the preseason, the Kansas City Chiefs have opted to give their starters playing time to prepare for the regular season. The speed of the games, even in preseason, allows the starters to adjust to the fast-paced nature of the matchups they will face in the regular season. Additionally, playing time in the preseason helps build chemistry and familiarity within the team, maximizing their efficiency and effectiveness on the field. The players themselves endorse the decision, valuing the opportunity to fine-tune their skills and regain their form ahead of the regular season. Ultimately, the Chiefs’ emphasis on preseason playing time positions them for success when it counts the most.
