The Chiefs signing of former Jets running back Thomas Jones wasn’t exactly earth shattering news from the financial standpoint, but it was an indication that the Chiefs are serious about upgrading their offense in 2010.
Bringing Jones into the fold, not only gives them a back that can take a share of the load off of Jamaal Charles, it gives them a back that provides competition for who will get the bulk of the carries. Competition is good.
One of the biggest problems the Chiefs have had in recent seasons has been the quality of depth on the roster meant there was little competition for starting jobs. For the most part, you had to really stink to lose your starting spot.
Charles is coming off a spectacular half season after taking over for the departed Larry Johnson, but despite his game breaking ability, questions remain over his durability and his ability to perform over the long haul. Not to mention the fact, in the NFL every team needs two quality backs.
In Jones, the Chiefs have the kind of back they hoped LJ could be. Consistent, versatile in the sense he can catch passes and block and a player who you don’t have to worry about off the field. He’s got 10 seasons in the league and last year was his career best in terms of carries (331), rushing yards (1,402) and TD’s (14). He gives the Chiefs a tandem they can build off of.
With the receiving corps still a huge question mark, Todd Haley and Charlie Weis know they can build their offense around a ground attack that has speed and power. if the line can do their job on first and second downs, Matt Cassel shouldn’t be faced with so many third and long situations, giving Weis more flexibility in his play calling.
Now if the Chiefs can find a quality receiver in the draft, the offense might be a threat next season.
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