Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Peter Woods (99)
Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Peter Woods (99) | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The Kansas City Chiefs have breathed life back into their defensive tackle room with the free-agency addition of Khyiris Tonga and by drafting Peter Woods in the back of the first round. Both are expected to take a lot off the plate of Chris Jones and allow Kansas City to play at a more consistent level on the inside. There are especially high expectations for Woods as the team looks to the rookie to set a new standard as the franchise embraces a youth movement.
This is already off to a great start, not only due to the performance of Woods, but also to an outlook that clearly fits Kansas City's culture. This was on display over the past week when Woods was given the chance to talk about fellow rookie R Mason Thomas. The comments came via SleeperChiefs, offering a clear mindset.
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“It’s something I’m obviously very excited about, he’s got some stuff you just can’t teach, that makes my job easier— that’s going to make him a better player, being able to use those things that are god given.”"Peter Woods
Woods isn't just taking a moment to praise Thomas, but going out of his way to build the confidence of his fellow rookie. It doesn't ring of any false belief either, with Woods endorsing the edge rusher in a way that shows why the Chiefs are so excited to have the defender as part of their current defensive line rotation.
Kansas City, throughout the dynasty, has had a clear attitude of using every opportunity to build up and credit those around them. As simplistic as this might seem, it is elusive for many NFL teams that get caught up in contract drama or personal accolades over one clear, unified goal.
Peter Woods latest comments prove he is not just a great player, but a culture builder in Kansas City
It is incredibly important that Thomas is able to have an instant impact, as the Chiefs are dealing with an injury to second-year man Ashton Gillotte and have clear questions around the depth of the defensive end room behind George Karlaftis. Kansas City's rookie defender taking the time to add steam to this only works in Kansas City's favor while serving as an unintentional endorsement of Woods himself.
Woods is an incredibly important piece to help keep Jones healthy throughout a grueling season and give Kansas City far more consistent help on the inside. The Chiefs have asked too much of Jones in recent years, and this showed up last season with a clear level of regression.
Woods is not only exactly what the Chiefs need on the field, but is proving to fit the mindset as well. A level of positivity and using your platform to build up teammates might seem simplistic, but it isn't as common as KC fans have grown accustomed to. No question, the Chiefs made the right decision, picking the Clemson star.
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