Special teams has typically been a multi-phase strength for the Kansas City Chiefs in recent years. In 2019, things have seemingly been different.
The return specialists haven’t been as explosive with Tyreek Hill sidelined early in the season with an injury. The miscues are everpresent with flags out often kick/punt blocking units. The kicking game has struggled with Harrison Butker missing an extra point and two field goals already.
What was once a boon, helping the Chiefs to victory, has become a thorn in its side in need of a remedy. This is the week that Kansas City can get back on track in at least one phase of special teams — punt returns. The Chiefs have been averaging 5.1 yards per punt return this season, with their longest return going for just 20 yards.
The Broncos punt coverage has been an exploitable area on special teams. They’re giving up the 12.1 yards per punt return, which is good for the third-most in the NFL. Additionally, they’re one of only two teams to give up a punt return touchdown this season.
It’ll be interesting to see if the Chiefs utilize Tyreek Hill as their top punt returner in Week 7. He’s been listed on the depth chart as their No. 1 punt return specialist, but with his return from injury still fresh, it’s not clear if they’ll be willing to put him in harm’s way. That could mean more pressure on rookie Mecole Hardman, who has been taking punt returns in his place.
Another thing to keep an eye on obviously is Kansas City’s ability to get off the field on the defensive side of the ball. Last week against the Texans, the Chiefs failed to force a single punt during the game. If the Chiefs want to attack this clear weakness, they’ll need the defense to tighten things up too.
