One of Vermeils first priorities in his new role was to trade for St. Louis quarterback Trent Green. The move cost the Chiefs a first-round pick in this year's NFL Draft, but Green's quick decision-making and leadership should be an immediate upgrade for the offense. The only concern the Chiefs have with Green is his durability. He's coming off knee surgery, which was performed during the off-season, but seems to be coming along quite well so far.

The Chiefs are also hoping they've found an explosive running back that can carry the load the way Marshall Faulk did for Vermeil in St. Louis. Whether Priest Holmes will remind anyone of Faulk is not likely, but he should step into the starting role now that Kimble Anders and Donnell Bennett have been sent packing.

Kansas City did suffer a big loss when second-year wide receiver Sylvester Morris suffered a knee injury during mini-camp. Morris could be done for the season, but the Chiefs were able to pick up wide receiver Derrick Mayes recently, and he should fill the hole adequately. They also picked up wide receiver/kick returner Tony Horne, who may not be much help on offense, but he is an explosive return man who should add a new dimension to the special teams.

The Chiefs weren't quite as aggressive on the defensive side of the ball during the off-season. Cornerback James Hasty and defensive tackle Chester McGlockten were let go, while free agent Ray Crockett was signed to fill Hasty's position. The Chiefs also brought in linebacker Glenn Cadrez to add a little depth and possibly contend for a starting assignment.

Overview

Bringing in Trent Green was a fantastic move for the Chiefs, if he stays healthy, and signing Derrick Mayes gives him a good target to throw at, but the biggest beneficiary of Green's presence may be tight end Tony Gonzales. Watch for Gonzales to have a huge year as Trent's go-to guy.

I'm not quite as confident about Priest Holmes as the workhorse back that Vermeil would like him to be. I am not at all convinced he will be the type of back that can carry the load the entire season.

Overall, I see the Chiefs showing a slight improvement, but they will probably finish somewhere in the middle of the pack. I think the playoffs are still at least a year away for Kansas City.