The Kansas City Chiefs were among the NFL leaders last season in interceptions and sacks, and they scored six defensive touchdowns. They’ll have difficulty matching those numbers in 2015.
Kansas City Chiefs
ESPN Fantasy Projection: 39 sacks, 18 interceptions, 9 forced fumbles, 3 TDs
Over or under: The Chiefs have yet to have any of three key defensive players -- linebackers Justin Houston and Tamba Hali and safety Eric Berry -- on the practice field at training camp. The Chiefs are also trying to cover for the free-agent loss of cornerback Sean Smith. While Hali and Berry could be available when the regular season starts, it’s still unrealistic to think the Chiefs will be as strong defensively as they were last season, particularly early in the year. On the plus side, the Chiefs still have cornerback Marcus Peters, who intercepted eight passes to tie for the NFL lead last year. Peters is a ball hawk, and as long as opposing quarterbacks throw his way, he’ll make his share of plays. He had an end-zone interception against Seattle’s Russell Wilson in last week’s preseason opener. On special teams, rookie Tyreek Hill could be a dynamic punt and kickoff returner. He has an excellent chance to boost the Chiefs’ kick return touchdown total, which last year was zero.
