Kansas City Chiefs 2013 Training Camp Preview

Kansas City Chiefs 2013 Training Camp Preview

It's the best time in a long time to be a Kansas City Chiefs fan.

The franchise just snagged the most accomplished NFL coach on the market this offseason in Andy Reid. The pieces of a contender were already across the roster, save for the quarterback position. Then they landed a competent professional by trading for Alex Smith, which provides an undeniably huge upgrade from what they dealt with under Matt Cassel.

There will be battles for snaps in Chiefs training camp, but at no starting position is there a choice between two terrible options. To boot, Reid's history with electric, receiving-savvy running backs bodes well for Kansas City's best player.

"I'm just excited man, I can't wait. I get the goosebumps when I start talking about it because his system is so perfect for me," Chiefs tailback Jamaal Charles told NFL Network. "Having me look at what he did with LeSean McCoy and Brian Westbrook in a similar offense. The sky is the limit for me in this offense.

"I feel like I could be one of the top running backs you guys are talking about next year. ... He tells me 'You're the fastest one on the team Jamaal. I don't care who lines up against you, a cornerback, a free safety, you can beat them.' He just gives me that confidence to go out there and be better."

Thomas Emerick is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ThomasEmerick, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google

Quarterback

Smith commanded a second-round pick for a reason and will emerge from camp as starter barring anything unforeseen. Free agent Chase Daniels assumes the No. 2 role while rookie Tyler Bray and Ricky Stanzi battle for a roster spot.

Running Back

Charles could easily clear 2,000 total yards in a Reid offense. After demolishing the 300-touch mark in 2012, it would be wise to let rookie Knile Davis give him a breather here and there.

Wide Receiver/Tight End

Dwayne Bowe should have a resurgence with Smith at quarterback, and it's incredible that he produced as much as he did with Cassel. Jonathan Baldwin must prove he's not a bust by beating out Donnie Avery. Dexter McCluster began playing mostly in the slot last year and should see even more of that role.

Free agent Anthony Fasano will likely cut into the snaps of incumbent Tony Moeaki, and how much will likely depend on their play in training camp. Rookie Travis Kelce adds another athletic wrinkle that can make Reid's offense really sing.

Offensive Line

The Chiefs boast both depth and strong starting caliber on the line. Branden Albert stayed in KC and takes over again at left tackle, while top selection Eric Fisher anchors the right side. Jeff Allen and Geoff Schwartz battle for starting left guard, and the loser becomes really good depth. Center Rodney Hudson and right guard Jon Asamoah provide a powerful interior presence as well and are likely starters.

Defensive Line

It's hard to expect anything but Tyson Jackson, Dontari Poe and Mike Devito across the line up front. Poe was a bit of a raw prospect as a rookie nose tackle last year, while Jackson and Devito offer solid push against the run.

Linebacker

Derrick Johnson is a perennially borderline elite inside linebacker and will be joined in the 3-4 probably by either Nico Johnson or Akeem Jordan, depending on how camp turns out. Justin Houston is one of the league's best young edge rushers while Tamba Hali can be elite but is up-and-down.

Defensive Backs

This semi-new-look secondary sees cornerbacks Sean Smith and Dunta Robinson join the fold as CBs No. 2 and 3. But the rest is business as usual with an excellent CB1 in Brandon Flowers along with starting safeties Kendrick Lewis and Eric Berry.

Special Teams

Dustin Colquitt and Ryan Succop take punting and kicking duties while the return situation is wide open, though my bet is some combination of McCluster and Davis get the bulk of reps.