As for Caliendo, he'll bring his seven career starts at left guard into training camp. Notably, Caliendo started the Chiefs' final six games (including the postseason) at left guard last year when Thuney moved out to left tackle. That stretch included Super Bowl LIX, and while the game didn't go the way Caliendo would have hoped, he explained that his experience that night will make him a better player.
"Afterward, it was pretty devastating, but that experience in the end was invaluable," Caliendo said. "Going undrafted and getting that type of experience is pretty rare, to be honest, and you just have to look back at the film and do everything you can to learn from it. Failing is growth, and just trust in that."
**5.** **Safety Jaden Hicks may be in store for a big year.**
Hicks, the Chiefs' fourth-round pick in 2024, has a major opportunity in front of him this season with former starting safety Justin Reid no longer in town. He impressed during his limited snaps last year, which included three interceptions, and following a strong spring, he has a real shot to take over Reid's role in Kansas City's defense.
"It's a good group of guys right now, and we're all competing trying to earn that spot," Hicks said. "It's a good, healthy battle between us, and they're going to put the best out there on the field. So, I'm just trying to be my best, be the best for the team, and go from there."
Additionally, Reid – who spent three seasons as one of the Chiefs' defensive leaders – appears to have prepared Hicks for this very opportunity.
"I think I'm a lot more comfortable this year. There's obviously still room to grow and learn, but I think J-Reid was a great help," Hicks said. "He helped me get everything \[down\] and \[taught me\] to keep stacking the days, keep getting better each day. I think that's the most important thing for this year."
He added that Reid made a point of taking Hicks under his wing in 2024, and while Reid is no longer a member of the team, his contributions may very well be felt in 2025 if Hicks can reach his potential.