Chiefs' Defensive Coordinator Strategizes Integration of New Acquisition Joshua Uche Ahead of Monday Night Face-off Against Buccaneers
ICARO Media Group
**Chiefs' Defensive Coordinator Discusses Integration of New Acquisition Joshua Uche**
Kansas City Chiefs' defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo addressed the media on Friday, unveiling insights related to the recent addition of defensive end Joshua Uche, who joined the team from the New England Patriots. With the Chiefs slated to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night, the swift integration of Uche into the defensive lineup has become a focal point for the coaching staff.
Spagnuolo provided an update on Uche's progress and potential involvement in the upcoming game. "It's quick, but [defensive line coach] Joe [Cullen] and [assistant defensive line coach] Terry [Bradden] are doing the best they can to get him up to date on the things we're doing," Spagnuolo noted. He confirmed that Uche participated in the team walkthrough, indicating some level of readiness, though he hesitated to commit fully to his participation against the Buccaneers. "Hopefully, we get some edge rush out of him. He's a good football player, and all our research came back positive. Mike Danna played with him and spoke highly of him."
Spagnuolo emphasized the value of Uche's background with a reputable coach like Bill Belichick, under whose guidance Uche played for three seasons in New England. He now leaves the task of preparing Uche for game action to Joe Cullen. Cullen expressed his own optimism, having studied Uche's work at both Michigan and with the Patriots. "He's been a good addition that [general manager] Brett Veach and [head coach] Andy Reid brought to the group. He's been working hard and doing everything he can," Cullen said.
Uche himself showed respect and admiration for his new teammate, Chris Jones, recognizing him as a formidable force on the field. “I've watched film on him. He's fast, has a good get-off. I think he'll add very good value to this defensive line and hopefully get us more sacks – that's always a plus – and help us affect the quarterback,” Uche remarked.
Though Uche's preparation time before Monday's game is limited, there is hope within the team that he will be able to contribute, even if only in a rotational capacity. His speed and ability to pressure the quarterback could be a valuable asset for the Chiefs as they look to bolster their defense.