The Kansas City Chiefs are one of two undefeated teams in the NFL, but they are stretched astonishingly thin when it comes to their defensive backs. Eric Berry is dealing with a heel injury, Eric Murray has an ankle injury and Armani Watts is fresh out of surgery. This shortage of personnel has forced the Chiefs to use Marcus Kemp, a wide receiver, in practice as a reserve safety.
Kemp is a second-year player who played college football at Hawaii. According Hawaii's official website, Kemp played some safety in high school. However, playing in high school and at the NFL level are two different things. Kemp has only played wide receiver since 2013, so he's probably a little rusty. Nevertheless, he looks like he's the team's best option right now.
The Chiefs were openly pursuing Seattle Seahawks safety Earl Thomas, but a leg fracture ended his season before a deal could be completed. Their defense is ranked 20th in the NFL, but their offensive firepower makes up for their deficiency on the other side of the ball. Eric Berry is a capable player. He's a former Pro Bowler that won Comeback Player of the Year in 2015. However, injuries have kept him off the field.
Heading into Week 6, the Chiefs will have the New England Patriots on their plate, who are starting to put it all together. Of all the weeks to be struggling defensively, this is one of the worst possible times. Fans should expect a high-scoring showdown on Sunday.