The Kansas City Chiefs, fresh off a disappointing Super Bowl performance in 2024, knew that significant roster changes were necessary to maintain their competitive edge heading into the 2025 season. The front office wasted no time addressing two critical areas of concern: the offensive line and the cornerback room. While the offensive line struggled in the big game, the cornerback depth was a persistent issue throughout the entire season, prompting major moves in the offseason.
To bolster the secondary, the Chiefs signed veteran cornerback Kristian Fulton and drafted promising rookie Nohl Williams. These additions have significantly reshaped the cornerback depth chart, pushing several players who saw substantial playing time in 2024 further down the roster. Among those now fighting for their spot is former seventh-round pick Nazeeh Johnson, whose lackluster performance last season and quiet offseason have placed him squarely on the roster bubble as training camp approaches.
Nazeeh Johnson’s Struggles in 2024
For many Chiefs fans, the idea of Nazeeh Johnson suiting up in red and white again is far from appealing. His 2024 campaign was nothing short of a disappointment, particularly in pass coverage. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Johnson earned a dismal 51.2 coverage grade, reflecting his struggles on the field. He allowed a staggering 60% completion rate on passes thrown his way, making him a consistent liability in the secondary. These numbers have eroded fan confidence in the former seventh-round pick, and it’s no surprise that many are ready to see him replaced.
Johnson’s lack of impact during OTAs and minicamp has only worsened his situation. With new faces in the cornerback room and increased competition, his roster spot is far from secure. As training camp looms, Johnson finds himself in a precarious position, battling for what is likely the sixth and final cornerback spot on the Chiefs’ 53-man roster.
The Battle for the Sixth Cornerback Spot
Johnson’s primary competitors for the sixth cornerback spot are Joshua Williams and Christian Roland-Wallace. Like Johnson, Williams struggled in 2024, though his performance was marginally better. His coverage stats, while not stellar, showed slight improvement over Johnson’s, giving him a slight edge in the competition. However, Williams also failed to make a significant impression during OTAs and minicamp, leaving the door open for others to seize the opportunity.
Christian Roland-Wallace, on the other hand, offers an intriguing upside. Despite seeing limited action in 2024, the young cornerback showed flashes of potential that have caught the coaching staff’s attention. His athleticism and instincts make him a dark horse in this competition, but like Johnson and Williams, he didn’t stand out during the early offseason workouts.
With none of the three players making a strong case during OTAs and minicamp, the upcoming training camp and preseason games will be critical. For Johnson, in particular, a standout performance is non-negotiable. Failure to impress could spell the end of his tenure with the Chiefs.
Why Johnson’s Days May Be Numbered
The Chiefs’ decision to overhaul their cornerback room signals a clear intent to prioritize reliability and depth in the secondary. With established starters and new additions like Fulton and Williams, the team is looking for players who can step up when called upon. Unfortunately for Johnson, his 2024 performance has left little room for optimism. His struggles in coverage, combined with his inability to make a significant impact during the offseason, have put him at serious risk of being cut before training camp concludes.
The Chiefs’ coaching staff, led by Andy Reid and defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, has a history of making tough roster decisions to ensure the team remains competitive. If Johnson cannot demonstrate marked improvement in training camp and preseason games, the team may not hesitate to move on from him in favor of a player with more promise or consistency.
What’s Next for the Chiefs’ Secondary?
As the Chiefs prepare for the 2025 season, the focus will be on building a secondary capable of shutting down opposing passing attacks. The additions of Fulton and Williams signal a commitment to that goal, but the battle for depth spots will be one to watch during training camp. For Nazeeh Johnson, the clock is ticking. A strong showing in the coming weeks could keep his NFL dreams alive, but another subpar performance might lead to his departure from Kansas City.
Chiefs fans, brace yourselves—Nazeeh Johnson’s time with the team may be coming to an end. With training camp set to determine his fate, all eyes will be on whether he can rise to the occasion or become the shocking name the Chiefs don’t hesitate to cut.