Chiefs 53-man roster prediction: Can this team repeat in 2020?

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KANSAS CITY, MO – SEPTEMBER 17: Defensive end Chris Jones #95 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates after intercepting a pass during the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Arrowhead Stadium on September 17, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

Defensive line (9, 38/53)

Defensive tackles

1. Chris Jones
2. Derrick Nnadi
3. Khalen Saunders
4. Mike Pennel

Defensive ends

1. Frank Clark
2. Tano Kpassagnon
3. Alex Okafor
4. Breeland Speaks
5. Mike Danna (rookie)

Chris Jones is one of the elite interior defensive linemen in the NFL, and with the looming contract situation of Patrick Mahomes, there’s legitimate concern over the Chiefs’ ability to keep him around long-term.

That won’t affect this season, however, as Jones will be back on the franchise tag for one more go-round with KC, at least.

Frank Clark turned things up as the 2019 season progressed last year and gave the Chiefs a really strong, physical option off the edge both against the run and as a pass rusher. He struggled through injuries in the regular season with eight sacks, but dominated in the postseason to the tune of five sacks and seven QB hits.

Outside of those two guys, the Chiefs have a number of key reserves returning on the defensive front and they will have some tough decisions to make with guys like Taco Charlton, Breeland Speaks, and Mike Danna. One of those guys likely won’t make the team.

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