Since taking over the job before the 2019 season, Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s game plan has been rightfully praised. He has found ways to get the most out of his young talent while encouraging his veterans to have a strong voice in the locker room.
Spagnuolo addressed the emergence of rookie defensive back Jaden Hicks as a versatile option in the secondary while speaking with reporters after Monday’s practice.
“One thing that sticks out about Jaden (Hicks) is he’s tall and long, and, yeah, he’s playing a bunch of different positions. It’s kind of he’s going through what Chamarri Conner went through last year, where you’re trying to learn everything in the volume of the defense, and yet he’s not just learning one spot,” said Spagnuolo. “I mean, J. Reid (Justin Reid), we’re not gonna have for a little bit here, so it’s a blessing and a curse, right? J. Reid doesn’t get the reps, but somebody else gets those reps, and right now, it’s Jaden that’s benefiting.”
Justin Reid being held out of practice with a right quad injury has opened the door for more opportunities in camp for Hicks and other young players in the secondary. The veteran’s return will make things interesting regarding who loses reps before the preseason.