Kansas City Chiefs safety Justin Reid has embraced his leadership role in a young secondary. During Thursday’s press conference, he shared his thoughts on their progression and overcoming all the injuries.
“The way it’s been all year has been the next guy up. We’ve had a constant rotation and have confidence in whoever is on the field. Chris Roland Wallace has been making plays.” said Reid. “Chamarri (Conner), if he is able to make it, he’ll be in there, and he’ll be making some plays for us. Josh Williams comes in and makes plays. Nazeeh Johnson comes in and makes plays. So, it doesn’t matter. Jaden Hicks, Bryan Cook, it doesn’t matter who’s on the field; when you’re on the field, you’re a starter.”
In the first quarter of their Week 15 victory against the Cleveland Browns, Bryan Cook intercepted a deep pass down the middle of the field from Jameis Winston, his second on the season. In the fourth quarter, Trent McDuffie recorded his first career interception, and with 1:26 left in the game, Jaden Hicks intercepted Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
“We have faith in all those guys to come in and perform,” said Reid. We have the record we have, because guys have been able to come in and make plays when we need them to.”
The injuries have sometimes hampered the Chiefs secondary, forcing the depth signing of veteran cornerback Steven Nelson last week.