As training camp continues to unwind, several players from the Kansas City Chiefs are slowly starting to prove themselves to belong in the roster. However, there are some hopefuls that have begun to shine brighter than others expected.
With that being said, here are three surprise standouts throughout the Chiefs' training camp.
Trey Smith, Right Guard
In the sixth round, the Chiefs selected the former offensive guard out of Tennessee. Even though his sixth-round pick status would suggest that he would only be a benchwarmer, he is with no doubt in the front seat to start for the organization. If it weren't for his major health issue (blood clots), he could have been taken in the third or second round. Hell, he could have been a good first round pick!
Though some already had some unrealistic high hopes for the guard, those expectations are being met easily. Currently, Smith is having an incredible training camp. One of the best pieces of footage out of practice is Smith going against star pass rusher Chris Jones:
Chris Jones and Trey Smith pic.twitter.com/abwR2ObJRF
— Sam McDowell (@SamMcDowell11) August 5, 2021
From the looks of it, Smith was able to manhandle Jones for quite some time. His raw power and hand placement makes for a great prowler for the Chiefs. If he continues to outshine other offensive linemen on the team, then he should be a Week 1 starter.
Devon Key, Safety
Devon Key's climb from undrafted player to 53-man roster potential has been incredible to witness. When the Chiefs signed the former Western Kentucky safety, they saw a player who was once successful in college. However, he has been one of the best surprises to come out of the defense. His humble approach to the game is also impressive to see (just watch his press conference). This is the kind of player head coach Andy Reid wants on his team. Someone who is willing to take it to the limit, be able to learn and be a difference maker.
There hasn't been any tape of him making any key plays in training camp; however, look for him to be a crucial player during the preseason and possibly the regular season. His work ethic and aggression will be big when he gets the chance to play the box safety position.
Noah Gray, Tight end
The Chiefs' tight end position has already been controlled by Travis Kelce. He reigns king at the position and there is no way any other player could replace him. However, the No. 2 position has been a constant rotating door. Numerous athletes have gone in and out. None has been able to keep the backup spot.
Then Noah Gray was drafted in 2021.
Noah Gray is an athletically gifted tight end who played at the University of Duke. Standing at 6'3″, he has the height, the hands and the route-running ability to be a good No. 3. Nonetheless, during training camp, Gray has proven himself to be the perfect backup for the Chiefs. Just look at some reactions from people watching him practice:
Patrick Mahomes opens up the first team period by finding Noah Gray, who makes an impressive grab in coverage. He’s off to another good start.
— Matt McMullen (@KCChiefs_Matt) July 30, 2021
Patrick Mahomes just extended the play and found Noah Gray deep over the middle during 7-on-7. Looking forward to seeing that on Sundays.
— Matt McMullen (@KCChiefs_Matt) August 4, 2021
I’ve noticed that Noah Gray has run with the 1’s, 2’s, and 3’s. The Chiefs are really trying to make sure he gets plenty of reps. Could be a sign for the future.
— KC Sports Report (@KCSportsReport) August 5, 2021
With all this hype circulating around him, don't be surprised to see Gray run with the starters in a two-tight end set to open up the field.
All of these players have really turned heads in training camp. If they continue to surpass expectations and make the best out of preseason, then they may just be key starters for years to come.
Follow Us
Subscribe