Tag: Chamarri Conner

Chamarri Conner returns fumble for Chiefs touchdown

Chamarri Conner with a defensive touchdown for the Chiefs

The Cincinnati Bengals and Kansas City Chiefs are having an intense game at Arrowhead Stadium.

In the fourth quarter on Sunday, Joe Burrow fumbed and Chamarri Conner picked it up and returned the football 38 yards for a score.

A two-point conversion try failed and the Chiefs led, 23-22.

Chiefs DC Steve Spagnuolo on the uncertainty surrounding the second cornerback position

Kansas City #Chiefs DC Steve Spagnuolo on the uncertainty surrounding the second cornerback position | @EdEastonJr

The cornerback position is critical for any team in the NFL, and the Kansas City Chiefs already feature an All-Pro in Trent McDuffie but followed by question marks on the depth chart.

After Monday’s practice, Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo spoke with reporters about the lack of a standout for the second starting cornerback spot.

“It’s an unanswered question right now, to be honest with you,” said Spagnuolo. “With the injuries that we dealt with and the guys in and out, it was hard to say, ‘This is the guy that won the job,’ so, there will probably be a bunch of them (cornerbacks) playing. We mix and match a lot anyway, so there will be a lot of that going on.”

Defensive backs expected to be in the second cornerback spot include Joshua Williams, Jaylen Watson, Nazeeh Johnson, and Chamarri Conner. Spagnuolo indicated the importance of solidifying the slot cornerback spot in Thursday’s matchup with the Baltimore Ravens.

“I mean, the expectation is (that) they’re going to come in here and try to run it –which we get it. Hopefully, we can get them in situations where they’ve got to throw, and we can be good against that because this team – listen, they get noted as a running team – they can do everything,” said Spagnuolo. “They have really good wideouts; their quarterback can extend the down, we all know that. He’s (Ravens QB Lamar Jackson) accurate. I mean, we’ve got a great deal of respect for them. “

The Chiefs have officially moved on from L’Jarius Sneed. The first regular-season game will help determine whether they made the right decision not to retain the talented cornerback.

Chiefs DC Steve Spagnuolo discusses rookie Jaden Hicks’ versatility in training camp

Kansas City #Chiefs DC Steve Spagnuolo discusses rookie Jaden Hicks’ versatility in training camp | @EdEastonJr

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.

Chiefs LB Nick Bolton on goals for OTAs: ‘We’re all trying to get better every single day’

#Chiefs LB Nick Bolton told reporters about what the team’s defense is trying to accomplish at OTAs.

Nick Bolton is one of the cornerstones of the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense, and has settled into his role as a leader after winning two consecutive Super Bowl titles.

During comments to the media this week, the former Mizzou linebacker told reporters that he feels that the continuity on the defensive side of Kansas City’s roster should be a boon for the team next season.

“Since being here, guys have been in the same system, kind of growing together. We’re learning the ins and outs of the scheme together at the same time, so we understand the communication part and weaknesses of the coverage — I think that’s a big thing for us,” Bolton said. “We have a lot of young guys like Chamarri Conner coming back. We’ve got veterans as well. It’s a group effort, and we’re all trying to get better every single day.”

Last season, the Chiefs leaned on their defense to keep them in games, especially in the playoffs. With many of the same players expected to suit up for Kansas City in 2024, hopes are high that the team can replicate its outstanding 2023 campaign to secure a third-consecutive Super Bowl title.

Chiefs HC Andy Reid credits GM Brett Veach for divisional victory over Bills

Kansas City #Chiefs head coach Andy Reid credits general manager Brett Veach for divisional victory over the Buffalo #Bills.

The Kansas City Chiefs are on their way to Baltimore for an AFC Championship showdown against the Baltimore Ravens this Sunday. The victory on Sunday in Buffalo was a friendly reminder of the team’s continued focus on young players and development.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid spoke highly of his young defensive players, most notably the impressive performance of rookie Chamarri Conner during his Monday Zoom press conference.

“Chamarri (Conner) did a heck of a job,” said Reid. “I mean, he’s been working in nickel and dime situations, but to come in and have that extended time in there and make the plays he did with the exception of just trying to pick the ball up, scoop, and score pressure to just fallen on it when it’s all said and done, but he sure did a nice job.”

Reid would acknowledge young defensive players like L’Jarius Sneed, Joshua Williams, and Jaylen Watson. Each player, including Conner, was a round find from general manager Brett Veach in the draft.

“Listen, I’m a big Brett Veach fan,” Reid explained. “He’s done a great job. I told him after the game. That’s him. This game is him. This is a reflection of all the time and effort he and his guys have put in it, just that that’s what it comes down to. They’ve given us good football players to coach.”

The Chiefs’ young defensive players continue to play well in pressure situations as their depth continues to be challenged by injuries. Reid offered no updates regarding injuries during Monday’s call, but there is a sense of relief that his reserves can step in and contribute.

Chiefs stock watch: Which players impressed during divisional round vs. Bills?

Here’s a look at the stock trends for some #Chiefs players after the divisional round victory over the #Bills. | from: @EdEastonJr

The Kansas City Chiefs pulled out a gutsy victory in the divisional round over the Buffalo Bills. The defending Super Bowl champions held on for the 27-24 win, punching their ticket to another AFC Championship game.

Patrick Mahomes proved he could win on the road in the postseason with a magnificent performance. Travis Kelce and Isiah Pacheco set the tone with early production and carrying on throughout the night. Marquez Valdes-Scantling picked a great time to have his best game of the year after such a dreadful year receiving during the regular season.

On defense, the unit pushed forward following injuries to safety Mike Edwards and linebacker Willie Gay. The final Bills drive was thwarted by the effort of Chris Jones, slightly disrupting Josh Allen’s shot in the endzone for a potential go-ahead touchdown pass. Critical plays by Tent McDuffie, Justin Reid, and L’Jarius Sneed helped to slow the Buffalo passing game in the second half.

The Chiefs set their sights on another AFC title game for the sixth consecutive season, but this time on the road away from Arrowhead Stadium. The top-seeded Baltimore Ravens await them in their quest to win back-to-back Super Bowl titles.

Here’s a look at how the stock is trending for some players after the divisional round victory at Highmark Stadium:

Chiefs stock watch: Which players impressed during Week 14 vs. Bills?

Here’s a look at the stock trends for some #Chiefs players after the Week 14 loss to the #Bills. | from: @EdEastonJr

The home crowd was ready to support the Kansas City Chiefs in another battle with the Buffalo Bills at Arrowhead Stadium in Week 14. Penalties and mistakes took the air out of their sails as the Chiefs fell short for a second consecutive week.

Mahomes did his best while under pressure from the Bills’ pass rush but wasn’t helped much by more drops from his receivers. He suffered a tip-ball interception on the opening drive. Rashee Rice added another touchdown reception as he separated himself as a primary target in the receivers room. Kelce’s effort was significant, as usual, and a returning Jeruck McKinnon found the endzone in the first half.

Kansas City’s defense held tough as they faced the high-powered offense of the Bills in check throughout the game. George Karlaftis, Charles Omenihu, Mike Danna, and Trent McDuffie got to Allen for shares of a sack, while Mike Edwards and a returning Nick Bolton led the team in tackles.

The Chiefs lose their second straight game as they maintain their slim lead in the AFC West and are falling out of contention for a potential first-round bye in the postseason.

Here’s a look at how the stock is trending for some players after the Week 14 loss at Arrowhead Stadium:

WATCH: Chiefs DB Chamarri Conner intercepts Bills QB Josh Allen

#Chiefs DB Chamarri Conner came down with the first interception of his career against the #Bills in Week 14.

Rookie defensive back Chamarri Conner have the Kansas City Chiefs a huge boost in the second quarter of their Week 14 matchup against the Buffalo Bills by intercepting Josh Allen just before the halftime break.

The turnover gave Patrick Mahomes a chance to score Kansas City’s first points of the game after a dreadful start to his day on offense.

Check out Conner’s exceptional play here, and notice the veteran savvy he displays to come down with the ball after Allen uncorked it his way:

This was the first interception of Conner’s career and couldn’t have come at a more crucial time for the Chiefs. Down by two touchdowns, Kansas City desperately needed a boost from its defense, and the rookie’s big play put some much-needed wind in the Chiefs’ sails before halftime.

Expect Conner to continue getting involved as he fills in for Kansas City’s injured veterans in the defensive backfield.

Chiefs Dave Toub praises the progression of rookie DB Chamarri Conner

#Chiefs special teams coordinator Dave Toub praised the progression of rookie defensive back Chamarri Conner.

The Kansas City Chiefs have seen their depth tested on both sides of the ball this season and are constantly developing their rookie class. The impact each young player can make when an opportunity presents itself due to injuries is essential to the franchise’s long-term success.

Chiefs special teams coordinator Dave Toub is consistently working with the younger developing players in his group. He looks more extensively at their abilities while they work towards fitting into their respective unit’s game plan. During Thursday’s pre-practice press conference, Toub expressed his excitement at the growth of rookie defensive back Chamarri Conner.

“He keeps getting better and better,” Toub explained. “I mean, that’s two games in a row. Now. He made beautiful tackles on punts and open-field tackles. So it tells you a lot about his football ability; he’s gonna be a great one down the road. I’m enjoying the fact that I got him right now.

“I know, eventually, he’s going to, you know, end up being in-depth as, you know, getting more and more reps on defense. He’s already getting a lot now, but he’s gonna get more and more as we go forward. He’s some he’s a player that should be excited about.”

Conner was a fourth-round pick in this year’s NFL Draft and has played primarily on special teams. The recent injuries on defense could eventually see him making the jump on more plays in Steve Spagnuolo’s system.

WATCH: Chiefs rookie Chamarri Conner sacks Jameis Winston

Chamarri Conner’s sack against the #Saints seemed to turn the tide for the #Chiefs after a slow start in New Orleans on Sunday.

Chamarri Conner had an exceptional showing at training camp in St. Joseph and got involved in the preseason as soon as he hit the field against the New Orleans Saints. His sack of Jameis Winston early in the second quarter of Sunday’s preseason matchup was one of the only notable plays from Kansas City’s defense.

This play seemed to swing the momentum back in the Chiefs’ favor after they surrendered 17 unanswered points in the first quarter against the Saints. Conner’s upside as a pass rusher is a welcome sign for Kansas City’s defense, which needs as much help as it can get against opposing quarterbacks with Chris Jones out of the starting lineup.

It is tough to gauge a player’s potential in the preseason given the low-stakes of the exhibition matchups, but with more plays like this, Conner could work himself into a crucial role on the Chiefs’ defense ahead of September’s regular season kickoff.