Andy Reid to Coach Chiefs

Added on Jan 04, 2013 by Scott in

NFL

Andy Reid’s time on the unemployment line was brief. Less than a week after being dismissed by the Philadelphia Eagles following a dreadful 4-12 season, Reid has reportedly agreed to a contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. The details of the deal have yet to be revealed, but with GM Scott Pioli’s exit, Reid is expected to be handed similar control he had with the Eagles, meaning final say on all personnel decisions.

Reid brings an impressive resume that includes six NFC East titles, five NFC Championship appearances and one trip to the Super Bowl. However, his last playoff win came in 2009 and has compiled only three postseason victories since 2005.

On the positive side, Reid brings structure and experience to a franchise sorely lacking. His pass heavy offensive philosophy fits the mold of today’s NFL, although the dearth of talent at quarterback and wide receiver (if Dwayne Bowe leaves) on Kansas City’s roster will make the challenge that much greater.

But Reid has been down this road before. When he accepted the Eagles job in 1999, he inherited a similarly weak roster, but was aided by the number two overall pick, which he used to select Donovan McNabb. Despite the question marks surrounding college signal-callers Geno Smith and Matt Barkley, it would be surprising if Reid didn’t go quarterback with the top pick in April.

For all the stability he will bring to KC, Reid is not without faults. His stubborn refusal to upgrade the wide receiver position during his early years in Philly helped prevent the Eagles from winning a Super Bowl, and his inability to adequately replace the late Jim Johnson at defensive coordinator in his later years proved equally costly.

Reid’s unwillingness to adjust his playcalling in games also leaves a lot to be desired. He is known to prematurely abandon the running game too soon and red zone woes plagued him throughout his days with the Birds. Look for kicker Ryan Succop to be very busy for the next few seasons.

There are quality pieces in place on defense as long as Reid pegs the right man (not Juan Castillo) to run it. And if they land a franchise quarterback in the draft, things might be looking up sooner than later for the Kansas City faithful. Regardless of public or pundit opinion, the Chiefs hired the most qualified name on the market. Now all Reid has to do is win.