Who is the Next Chiefs DB to get the EXTRA Time with Spagnuolo in OTA's?

Locked On Chiefs - Daily Podcast On The Kansas City Chiefs31mMay 5, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The Locked On Chiefs podcast dives into the upcoming OTA (Organized Team Activities) window, analyzing how the Kansas City Chiefs are preparing for the 2026 season. Hosts Chris Clark and Ryan Tracy focus on the defensive backfield, particularly who will receive the most attention from defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo during individual drills. The discussion centers on Mansour Delane, the new starting outside corner replacing Trent McDuffie, and the expectation that Spag will invest heavily in him to ensure he hits the ground running. They also explore the evolving nickel corner role, with Cater Kohu returning from injury and rookie Jaden Kennedy vying for a starting spot. The conversation shifts to the offense, examining how Cyrus Allen, the new slot receiver, might succeed where previous rookies like Jalen Royals struggled—by being given a defined, specific role early. The hosts also assess the potential impact of new running backs Ken Walker and Emmitt Johnson, the offensive scheme’s flexibility, and the possibility of adding a veteran edge rusher to complement Armistice Thomas. Finally, they touch on roster moves, including the release of Brandon George, and speculate on future signings, cap implications, and the Chiefs' PR tactics around player numbers like Jeff Caldwell.

Key Takeaways
1

Mansour Delane is expected to receive the most one-on-one time with Steve Spagnuolo during OTAs to accelerate his development as the new starting outside corner.

2

The Chiefs are likely shifting toward a more defined nickel role, with Jaden Kennedy and Cater Kohu competing for the spot, signaling a change from Chamari Connor’s previous overuse.

3

Cyrus Allen’s success hinges on being assigned a specific, limited role (slot receiver) early, mirroring how the Chiefs successfully developed Xavier Worthy and JuJu Smith-Schuster.

4

Ken Walker’s presence could improve offensive balance by creating uncertainty for defenses, giving receivers more separation and helping the passing game.

5

The Chiefs may add a veteran edge rusher to complement Armistice Thomas, who struggles in traditional 3-technique alignments due to his lack of power and need for space to use his speed.

…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Welcome & OTAs Preview

The hosts introduce the podcast and set the stage for the upcoming OTA season, emphasizing the importance of individual drills and early preparation before team activities begin.

2:25
5 min

Who Gets Spag's Attention? Mansour Delane

It's him because you want him to hit the ground running and be able to wipe out half the field as quickly as possible.

Highlight
7:00
4 min

The Nickel Corner Evolution: Kohu vs. Kennedy

I'm really interested to see what I think is kind of the critical pivot point in this evolution of the secondary is the nickel spot.

Highlight
11:00
6 min

Cyrus Allen’s Path to Success: Role Clarity

One role and then expand to three. I agree with you completely, and I agree that Allen needs to be in that slot role.

Highlight
17:00
7 min

Offensive Shifts: Walker, Johnson & Scheme Flexibility

The conversation explores how Ken Walker and Emmitt Johnson could reshape the Chiefs' rushing attack, with a focus on under-center formations and creating defensive uncertainty to benefit receivers.

High-Impact Quotes
It's him because you want him to hit the ground running and be able to wipe out half the field as quickly as possible.
Chris Clark4:16
Viral: 85.0
If they can't tell if it's running or passing... That will help your receivers get more separation.
Ryan Tracy17:13
Viral: 80.0
I'm really interested to see what I think is kind of the critical pivot point in this evolution of the secondary is the nickel spot.
Ryan Tracy5:02
Viral: 78.0
Speakers

Hosts

Chris ClarkRyan Tracy
Topics Discussed
Chiefs Defensive Backfield Development90%OTA Preparation and Player Evaluation85%Rookie Receiver Role Clarity80%Offensive Scheme Flexibility75%Edge Rusher Depth and Roster Strategy70%Player Positioning and Alignment68%Salary Cap Management65%Practice Squad Potential60%
People & Brands

Mansour Delane

person

14xPositive

Steve Spagnuolo

person

12xPositive

Cyrus Allen

person

8xPositive

Peter Woods

person

8xPositive

Armistice Thomas

person

7xNeutral

Andy Reid

person

6xPositive

Jaden Kennedy

person

6xNeutral

Emmitt Johnson

person

6xPositive

Trent McDuffie

person

6xPositive

Ken Walker

person

5xPositive

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