The first, of course, is Ty Law. He is certainly a lot better than Lenny Walls (who was projected to start) and will give the Chiefs some much needed help in the secondary. That being said, they really need to get something out of first-round pick DE Tambia Hali in terms of rushing the passer. Even Surtain and Law will give up big plays if the quarterback has all day. They could be in for a season a lot like Minnesota last year - getting a lot of interceptions, but giving up a lot of passing yards and touchdowns. Law will be thrown at a lot playing opposite Surtain, but at least he will not draw the #1 receiver.
Law should end up with a lot of interceptions, but that does not mean the defense is being successful. They need to tackle better as well, but the addition of Law helps the Chiefs considerably because it addressed a glaring weakness. It would be like the Seahawks signing Law if Jimmy Williams was projected to start (with no Jennings, Herndon, or Babineaux on the team).
The other signing is FS Dwight Smith in Minnesota. His departure from New Orleans will not be felt with Josh Bullocks, Bryan Scott, and Jay Bellamy all still on the roster. It is news though for Tampa Bay and Minnesota. Tampa Bay now has to be comfortable with FS Will Allen, and I am not sure they can count on him. They will not be hurt too badly, but Smith is a perfect fit for the Cover-2.
It helps Minnesota. Darren Sharper should still be great when he moves to strong safety with Dwight Smith playing free safety. It will be interesting to see how SS Tank Williams fits in as he was acquired from Tennessee to replace SS Corey Chavous. Williams plays almost like a linebacker, and they need help there. The Vikings could go with Sharper, Smith, and Williams in their nickel package, and Williams might play some linebacker in their normal defense. They are weak at defensive end and linebacker, but strong in the secondary and at defensive tackle. It makes them strong against the run at the first level, but weak at the second level. They struggle rushing the passer, but have good cover guys. The pieces do not really fit together that well. Smith helps, but also confuses the situation a little bit.
I am going to try to knock out the other 3 AFC West Team Previews today as well. The weather has been so nice and I have been busy with other things, but I want to get them done before training camp and things starting heating up with the Seahawks.
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