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Five positions Kansas City Chiefs must address in free agency

By Erik Lambert

Dec 6, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tackle Eric Fisher (72) defends against Oakland Raiders defensive end Khalil Mack (52) and corneback D.J. Hayden (25) during an NFL football game at O.co Coliseum. The Chiefs defeated the Raiders 34-20. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tackle Eric Fisher (72) defends against Oakland Raiders defensive end Khalil Mack (52) and corneback D.J. Hayden (25) during an NFL football game at O.co Coliseum. The Chiefs defeated the Raiders 34-20. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 3, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) is pressured by Kansas City Chiefs inside linebacker Derrick Johnson (56) in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won the game 23-17. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) is pressured by Kansas City Chiefs inside linebacker Derrick Johnson (56) in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won the game 23-17. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports /

The Kansas City Chiefs took a big step in the right direction this season, winning their first playoff game since 1994.  They could be just one or two key moves away from reaching the Super Bowl next year.  NFL free agency could present such an opportunity.  Which positions will require the most attention this coming March?

Inside Linebacker

This could potentially become a big problem if the Chiefs brass isn’t careful.  Derrick Johnson, by far their best player at inside linebacker is 33-years old and also set to hit free agency himself.  Retaining him is the first priority and then finding someone of quality to play next to him would be the second step.

Josh Mauga and Frank Zombo were serviceable in that role but hardly consistent playmakers.  If the Chiefs are looking for an upgrade, and perhaps one that won’t cost big money, they might want to scope out Jerrell Freeman.  He had a tremendous season in 2015 for the Indianapolis Colts, improving his run support and maintain his ability to function in coverage.

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