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1999 Ad

Sporting News, The,  July 19, 1999  

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KEEP AN EYE ON: A year ago, LB Bryce Paup was unhappy with his role in Dick Jauron's defense. He didn't like playing in space, often finding himself in coverage. In this scheme, he will be closer to the line, which he likes. He also will attack more, which he certainly wants. A happy Paup could result in a much better pass rush. Another player to watch is DE Tony Brackens, who has tons of ability but has not lived up to his potential after two injury-plagued seasons. He will become a free agent after the season, so this a huge year for him. He must become a bigger factor in the pass rush for this team to get to the Super Bowl.... The health of three defensive players is something to watch. DEs Renaldo Wynn (groin) and Joel Smeenge (shoulder) and DT Seth Payne (shoulder) were limited during the June precamp. All are expected to be key contributors, with Wynn and Payne penciled in as starters. They could be limited during the early part of camp but are expected to be ready to go by the regular-season opener.... One key will be to establish TE Kyle Brady as a receiver. Brady was known as more of a blocker with the Jets, but the team is excited about his ability to get downfield. Mark Brazil has never been comfortable with a third receiving option, which makes Brady so potentially valuable.... Coughlin will call the plays, which will be something to watch considering his tendency to become emotional on the sideline.... The team must find two corners who can cover. First-round pick Fernando Bryant was impressive in June and should push for a starting job. Incumbents Aaron Beasley and Dave Thomas and '98 second-rounder Cordell Taylor also are in the mix.... Look for Tavian Banks to be used some as a slot receiver to spread the field more.

--Pete Prisco

CAMP FACTS

Where: ALLTEL Stadium; Jacksonville, Fla.

Rookies report: July 29

Veterans report: July 29

Kansas City

CAMP PHILOSOPHY: The intensity level will be high, a byproduct of Gunther Cunningham's style. Cunningham is trying to push the idea that doing things the right way--his way--will get results. The biggest difference from last year's camp will be the length of practices. Players will be excused early if they get their work done; the coaching staff hopes this will save energy for later in the season. No time will be wasted, which means there is no time for mental breakdowns. Although nearly all of the starting positions are filled, Cunningham is keeping an open mind about competition. It's important that the Chiefs hit the ground running since they need to take advantage of a first-month schedule that includes games at Chicago and San Diego and a home game vs. Detroit.

PRESEASON PRIORITY: The team needs to prove it can establish a consistent running game with Barn Morris. That's a big question, despite the promise he showed toward the end of '98. One thing to remember: He has never started more than eight games in a season. Though much attention was paid to the quarterback position in the offseason, including the hiring of Tom Rossley as QBs coach and bringing in Warren Moon, it won't mean much if the team can't run. Morris is the man, but Rashaan Shehee and rookie Mike Cloud must provide competition in camp.