Are The Chiefs Relaxing? … Tuesday Cup O’Chiefs
You’ve heard about the 800-plus pounds of collective weight that the Chiefs lost last year. You’ve learned about Todd Haley’s meticulous attention to detail. You greatly appreciated the effort that K.C. displayed in last season’s finale against the Broncos. And you’ve probably read about the near-perfect attendance record to this year’s Chiefs’ minicamp.
The question is: are we done with that intensity?
If you have no idea why I’m asking this, please, let me explain.
With the 2010 NFL Supplemental Draft just around the corner (Thursday), it’s only natural for each team to keep an eye on the available prospects. With every other member of the league looking everywhere in search of an edge, all teams are compelled to keep their options open, regardless of the setting — yes, even in the less-glamorous player selection show. After all, you never know when — and where — you could find a diamond in the rough.
So, when reports first started to leak about the Chiefs’ interest in the former BYU RB Harvey Unga (above), I barely batted an eyelash. Given that the position Unga plays seems more crowded around K.C. than a BBQ eatery, that news came as nothing more than the typical maneuver of a responsible organization, performing due diligence on yet another player.
But when I found out that the Chiefs multiplied their inquiries about the one-time Cougar, I suddenly became aware of one hidden sub-plot that was unfolding right before my eyes: a possible relaxation within the confines of One Arrowhead Drive, symbolized by the always recurrent vision of picking talent above everything else.
It’s not a secret that the new era of the Kansas City Chiefs has been defined by apprehension; that’s become quite obvious throughout the whole process. Every move seemed utterly calculated. You only needed to pay a little attention to the way the organization has handled negotiations, injuries, strategies, the media, etc. Clearly, the people in charge would make Bill Belichick proud and to the credit of Scott Pioli and Todd Haley, they have done a good job in sustaining the pace for this long. But sooner or later the gig must come to an end, and really, nothing that I’ve seen so far has led me to believe in such possibility until I fully pondered the value of a seemingly innocent move that would have greater ramifications than what first meets the eye.
I’ll even say this: if the Chiefs do fall in the trap of succumbing to the sirens’ call that represent the talents of the all-time leading rusher at Brigham Young, they would be sending a very resounding signal that their guards are indeed going down, if they haven’t already. They would be compromising several of the principles that they’ve spent hundreds of hours installing since the beginning of the administration. Consequently, that prospect would really epitomize a chink in their armor.
And if you don’t believe me, just look at the signs:
Where Would Be The Character? – It has been widely documented that Harvey Unga is pursuing a career in professional football because he violated BYU’s “Code of Honor.” Now, I don’t want you to believe that I’ll be going all Lt. Jonathan Kendrick on you and say that he committed a crime or anything like that (he didn’t.) But the evidence remains indisputable. Unga showed little restraint when he decided to break a stipulation that if caught, would have serious repercussions. That speaks a lot about character. If he gets picked up by the Chiefs, such move would tell me that they would be a little more flexible regarding this important trait.
It Is What It Is – Not to be overlooked, the fact remains that Unga left BYU as a junior. And you know that for his money, Scott Pioli prefers players who can make an impact as soon as they become part of his teams. Sure, Eric Berry is also a junior, but there’s a difference. Eric Berry was an All-American. Unga was not. And also, maybe not mature enough to contribute right away.
The RB Summit – It’s worth repeating: the K.C. backfield in so overpopulated that Kolby Smith became expendable. We already have Jamaal Charles, Thomas Jones, Kestahn Moore, Jackie Battle, Tim Castille, and even Dexter McCluster if needed. To invest a ’11 draft selection in one more RB who may not even be the perfect fit for the K.C. offense seems like something of a luxury. And I don’t think that we’re ready to test those waters. Yet.
So, there you have it. And truth be told, I’m torn between which option I want to see develop. On one hand, it wouldn’t bother me one bit to see the Chiefs’ mindset get a little more relaxed; and on the other, I’d like to see more discipline until I see some more results on the scoreboard. Then again, which way are they leaning is out of my hands. All of which only leaves me to ask:
Will they cave in?
Time will tell. If they do, is that something to worry about?
You be the judge.
NFL PERSONNEL & NEWS FILE FOR MONDAY, JULY 12
- BROWNS – former Pro Bowl TE Milt Morin passed away last Friday at the age of 67 from a heart attack. A former Cleveland first-round draft choice, he spent 10 seasons with the Browns (1966-75), catching 271 passes for 4,208 yards and 16 touchdowns in 129 games. His 51-yard TD catch from QB Mike Phipps with two minutes to play helped the Browns tie the Chiefs in a 1973 game. After football, Morin spent 15 years as a corrections officer at the Hampshire County Jail in Massachusetts.
- COWBOYS – A former undrafted rookie long snapper has sued the team over injuries he suffered last year when the club’s practice bubble collapsed during a thunderstorm. Jamar Hunt suffered a herniated disk in his neck when one of the bubble’s steel supports landed on him. He was released before training camp started last year and has not found another team willing to sign him.
- DOLPHINS – signed 5th-round draft choice S Reshad Jones to a 4-year, $1,950,000 contract with a $165,000 signing bonus – he should compete for a starting spot at free safety in his rookie NFL camp with Miami.
- JETS – released DT Simi Toeaina – undrafted rookie out of Oregon was signed last month.
- LIONS – agreed to terms on a one-year contract extension with QB Shaun Hill – the deal extends his commitment to Detroit through the 2011 season.
- RAIDERS – signed 5th-round draft choice CB Walter McFadden to a 4-year contract, terms undisclosed – Auburn product that has good cover skills.
[...] Are The Chiefs Relaxing? … Tuesday Cup O’Chiefs-BobGretz.com I imagine over the next week to two weeks we’ll start to see a few players selected at the end of the first round sign contracts with their teams. I noted before that most front offices don’t even start negotiations with their first round picks until after the 4th of July holiday. [...]
From what I’ve read, Unga’s “Code of Honor” violation was having pre-marital sex. So, not exactly a huge character issue…outside the confines of BYU, that is. I understand the fact that he broke a rule. But, a college kid getting laid? Come on. And as I understood it, he admitted it freely. It wasn’t like the Poontang Police came and busted down his door in mid act.
“Scott Pioli prefers players who can make an impact as soon as they become part of his teams.”
I also have to wonder about this one, Bob. That may have been the case in New England. But, I haven’t seen any evidence of that here in KC. Not yet, anyway. Of course, we all hope this year’s draft class does. But, we hoped the same thing last year. Besides, I think every GM would prefer their players to make an immediate impact. Doesn’t happen all that often, though.
Really Bob, your starting to sound like Jason Whitlock… The kid had sex. How many college students aren’t having sex? At any other campus in the US or the world for that matter he wouldn’t be getting kicked off a football team. Yes, their school, their rules, but most parents can’t keep their kids from having sex, how can a college campus expect too…
I know what you’re saying Bob, but violating BYU’s code is a little different. I don’t see it as major, and I think if the team decides to go after Unga it will be based on plenty of homework (including knowledge from Moeaki).
Unga looks like he could be a Kevin Faulk type RB for them, and if they see that in him they should go for it. Just not too high of a pick.
It depends on the situation. I certainly don’t want them to start acquiring players the Cinci Bengals way.
If we get him, Battle goes. This guy has more vision & explosion.
I think you may be missing the point Tim. It’s not that the kid had sex, it’s that he didn’t follow the honor code and got himself kicked out of school. This type of ‘situation’ does make it seem like it’s out of character for the Chiefs to be looking at him.
“Will they cave in?”
I’m taking one of my last remaining chances to comment on here to say – this would be a very good poker bluff if they pull it off. How many other people have they asked about that they didn’t get? How many published phone calls were there on Dex and on Javy Arenas? (not a lot is my guess)
Another real possibility is…if they have this guy – what trading partner might they want to deal this guy to – and who might they get at Nose Tackle in exchange? Does Don Pioli owe his father-in-law a favor connected with the Alleman/Ndukwe deal? (since Runnin’ Ricky Williams is eventually going to get older and bored again)
More telling…should we be asking the question – who “aren’t” they asking about but are looking at?
Please, enough with the nonsense. It’s assinine to suggest that Unga doesn’t fit the Chiefs’ character profile because he had sex.
As far as the argument that the Chiefs shouldn’t select a talented player because the team already has talent there, that too is nonsensical. The Chiefs went through several runningbacks last year because of injury and ineffectiveness. They’ll need several quality backs this year, too. Having quality depth at RB is never a problem – do not mistake Castille and Moore for quality.
Yet another reason I won’t be paying for content.
“Yet another reason I won’t be paying for content.”
If BobGretz gives 100% perfect little right answers, would there be any room left for discussion or just “I agree with you 100%” lemming comments? Does it appear you missed what looks to be the central point of his piece – “You be the judge.”
This is definitely a different take on the Supplemental Draft. I like it. However…
I don’t see taking Unga as compromising on the “high” character standards of the team (which seems to be the main argument here) when we still have a guy like D. Bowe in a starting position. There are undoubtedly other discipline problems (Shaun Smith?) as well who will have a contract and a roster spot at the end of preseason.
And when I said “other discipline problems” I meant to say “potential discipline problems”, because obviously there hasn’t been much of a ruckus from any Chiefs thus far into the off-season.
If the Chiefs want Unga, within their set parameters (next years draft pick)they will get him. It’s silly to think all Chiefs players will be judged solely on character. Personally I don’t think any team will give more than a 3rd round pick for him.
I have noticed a few of the above commentors are still wanting to give Bob Gretz a Black Eye over his upcoming premium member fee. I say, get over it guys. I agree, we all have our principals & budgets and make our decisions accordingly. I would just prefer you take your cheap shots elsewhere.
Go Chiefs.
Nice read Enrique, I seem to be the only one that noticed you wrote it!
It will be very interesting to see where Unga ends up for what pick.
I will be paying my subscription today and I know it will be worth every penny. Thanks!
Unless there is something else than premarital sex, i don’t see a character issue. And i completely disagree with Gretz here, which doesn’t happen often. How is looking for talent anywhere and everywhere letting their guard down? Doesn’t make sense.
I hope we get him, castille, battle, moore are all very expendable. Unga could take over 3rd RB spot this year, and maybe the 2nd RB spot next year or year after. RBs get hurt a lot, this kid would get some carries this year….assuming chiefs due their diligence and the talent is there.
Personally, I think Bob is the best source of news and historical context on the Chiefs. He’s human and not always correct. However, he’s better than any other alternative news source. And he needs to earn a living and pay expenses of this blog if it is to continue. I’m happy to contribute $25, a real value for the money. No, I don’t know Bob and am not a relative. Its just how I feel. Back off on his premium fee!
@Randy B
Thanks Randy B. And to enrich the conversation…
Like I said in the column, I, myself, do not think that Unga committed some sort of capital sin. In fact, I really don’t think that this was a one-time occurrence, knowing how football players are always approached by women. Like Mad Chief said:
“But, a college kid getting laid? Come on.”.
I agree. That is not an extraordinary scenario, as far as I know.
But the fact remains that Unga broke a rule. A pivotal one for the people at BYU. Included in their CODE OF HONOR. And if you take into account that the Chiefs’ have run a very strict operation where they have demanded the UTMOST COMMITMENT to the game, well, I think they’ve drawn the line themselves. Again, this is not to chastise them but to determine if they have relaxed the enforcement of their guidelines, which by the way, I, for one, would think it would be more beneficial. Then again. I can only wait to see the results.
Nevertheless, I like the spirited debate. So, thanks for chiming in.
PS
One more thing, my man Mad Chief. In the part where you wrote:
“And as I understood it, he admitted it freely”
I really have to disagree in that one. As I understood it, he admitted it “freely” because he’s girlfried is PREGNANT. So, there wasn’t much room left to hide anything.
Character issue? I went 56 instead of 55 on the way to work, but I still think my character is in tact. If he cheated on a test or something, sure that’s a problem. Consensual sex? Sorry, nothing to see here folks…move along.
I see relaxation in another light. I see the Chiefs as being comfortable enough to look for an upgrade in talent at any position. That’s what good teams do. Battle and Castille can certainly be upgraded. I’m also not sure what next year’s RB crop is projected to look like. He might be the best of the bunch. I think you have to look at that as well. I certainly trust this team to do due diligence in evaluating and making the correct decision.
Enrique says:
“I really have to disagree in that one. As I understood it, he admitted it “freely” because he’s girlfried is PREGNANT. So, there wasn’t much room left to hide anything.”
Guys deny they got girls pregnant all the time. So, here’s a young man with every reason to lie, deny, and hide it…because he’s going to get kicked out of school. But, he stepped up and did the right thing…admitted it, and accepted the consequences. Seems like “character” to me.
@Mad Chief:
You point may very well be better than mine. Again, only time will tell us what’s gonna happen in the future. For Unga, and the Chiefs.
Bob is great…but this site is clearly not worht paying for…He is going to have to add more articles and do a better job in my opinion.
Charging for a blog is silly…there are millions with great information that are free…makes no sense to me..
Being a virgin should be a requirement to be a Chief! The real error Harvey made was thinking he could survive 4 years at BYU without getting laid. I wouldn’t have lasted 4 weeks. He broke the rule, but what you have do is look at his character in context and compare it to other available RBs, potential RBs next year and the RBs currently on the roster. If the Chiefs think he’s worth a 2011 pick and get him, I’m all for it. I wouldn’t see it as a sign that the leadership of the Chiefs is collapsing.
Two different issues, as I see it.
#1. Consensual sex is not the issue, but violating a code of ethics that you signed up for IS. Guys/girls in college have sex. For some, that is no big deal. But when you put your name on it and then violate it, it becomes an issue. As trivial as it was, it begs the question,”Would he be as willing to break one of the Chief’s tivial rules?” — as some Chiefs have. Individually, we all get to decide where this falls.
#2. If he is an upgrade at the psn, why not take a look at him. I see no relaxation of anything in doing so. Castille and Battle can definately be upgraded, and if this kid is that upgrade, grab him for an appropriate draft pick.
Bottom line–I trust the FO to do the right thing.
I don’t see it as that big of an issue, character or otherwise.
If they eliminated all the players that had premarital sex during H.S. or College from each years NFL draft there probably wouldn’t be enough left to fill more than a couple teams.
Having ‘Premarital Sex’ is a Honor Code violation at BYU but its certainly not a crime and the criminals and the type of guys that become a team cancer are what I believe Pioli is trying to keep from becoming a Chief.
The fact he stood up as accountable and is standing with his girlfriend (fiance) is a breath of fresh air from what the norm is today.
It is easy to recognize the newbies. If you have been reading Bob for any time at all you would have known that it was not Bob that wrote this article. Those that have been here for awhile are embarrassed I am sure.
Enrique clearly wrote this piece to stir up some debate and as usual many completely missed the point.
Guys started to fantasize about college kids having sex and lost their focus I think. Enrique’s article was never about sex and in fact he never even used the word. He is questioning whether the fact that a guy did something (it could be anything) that he promised not to do and knew very well the consequences if he did do it constitutes a red flag on the character issue. And not if we think so but do we think that the Chief’s brass would think so.
I for one think that it does throw up a red flag and would cause maybe a little more investigation into the guys background. However the fact that he was at BYU in the first place tells me that they probably are not going to find anything and the guy has solid character and it is a non issue and would not put a chink in the armor.
Pioli may be looking for guys that can contribute right away but he is always looking for developmental guys as well.
I don’t think it ever matters how much talent you have at one position, teams are always looking to upgrade talent.
IMO the fact that the Chiefs are looking into this guy in no way undermines the standards that they have set to date.
Enrique, quick question, have you paid your subscription fee yet?
I understand both sides to this deal. I don’t know how many guys will even pay. Not very many guys comment so is 250 subscribers a reasonable guess. If so that is about two months wage for most guys so I don’t really see how that helps much. That certainly does not afford Bob enough to greatly increase the content of this site. I am not opposed to this paid thing but I also agree that these type of blogs are free. Some guys are throwing a fit which is totally uncalled for, because this blog belongs to Bob and he can close it or charge for it if he want to.
@True Red & Gold:
1) About the column:
Thanks for your thoughtful rebuttal. It makes for a good debate.
2) Regarding your quick question:
Just let me say that I haven’t thought about leaving.
True Red and Gold,
i agree completely that this in no way undermines the standards they have set. being @ BYU in the first place shows the guy must have character. besides, there is a big difference between bad character and making a mistake! i agee with the other post earlier about the fact that the guy “owned up” to it and is standing by his girl and baby when ALOT of guys in the nfl don’t. sounds like a man to me, admitting a mistake and making it right, besides, the guy is a stud and you are prob looking at the new TRich, that’s if they can get it done. You can always tell when it’s enrique, they have a different style.
Well…Enrique fooled me today. In my defense, though…when I referenced Bob (as the author), it was early this morning.
So Enrique, since you seem to actually comment back…will you be writing and contributing more on the “premium” site? Or has this past few days been a fluke?
@Mad Chief:
I’m no way I’m avoiding your question, but you’d have to ask Bob about that. He — as well as you, the readers –, will have to determine if my work is worthy of a “premium” label.
As for this week’s role? Let’s just say that I’m giving it a try. I hope it has turned out OK for you guys.
sorry, typo:
– I’M IN NO WAY avoiding your question…
That’s better.
Not a very helpful answer, Enrique. But, Bob rarely ever answers question here in the comments section. It’s worth a try, I suppose. Bob?
@Mad Chief:
Don’t worry man, I’ll let you know soon.
Thank God I didn’t pay $ to read this. Questioning if the Chiefs are relaxing on thier standards over some little rumor is just ridonkulis. The whole thing is just conjecture and filler no matter who wrote it.
Add some advertising Bob to keep the site free. I know, you’ve said ,we have advertising through a co-op blah blah blah. Don’t insult us, you only have one banner.
best part about this whole thing is that he left school for having sex, while the person who the university was named after, Brigham Young, had 56 kids and 27 wives lol….. talk about a moral code
Great point Jeanluc, is the last name Picard? I’m not mouthing I’m really a huge next generation fan I tevo every episode something about space travel blows my mind. And how bout councilor troi that chick is smokin hot.
I hate how my job makes it so I cant interact I am always the last to post it seems like so all cry me a river please.
The couple Unga and Moieki are engaged. I thought that mormans were about paligimi with jeanluc up there making an outstanding point. So the guy knows he can make it in the NFL and wants to make love to his future wife. I dont see that bieng any were close to Pac Man Jones or Albert Haynesworth. I believe in standard and all of that but the Chiefs are not the Amish stallions or watever.
Is transparancey the issue here? It’s the supplemental draft for heavens sakes!
As for the fee. Still teetering towards no, but once things get a little juicy during the draft next year we’ll see. Not mad at Bob I love bieng American free to make money and all that good stuff. Magazines and newspapers are failing for a reason and thats because the enternet content not the enternet her self but it’s content you can mainly resource at no cost it is FREE.
I hope the site does very well. Most magazines that I subscribe to though are 12.95 per year and 24.00 for two though. 25 for what is really about a half a year is kinda high in my opinion. I hope Bob doesn’t lose anything and does extremely well.
good observation mr. gretz lol I agree, they need to stick with the formula they have.. I never understood the interest in this player for the reason you stated -he’s not an instant contributor..
Seems to me that this kid broke the code of conduct of the school. At the same time he did it with another BYU student and was man enough to stand up and admit it and go to be with her when she delivered. He definitely knows he has a shot at the NFL so why wouldn’t he. And since his girlfriend is Moeaki’s sister he has an inside shot at making the Chiefs team if drafted. Interesting article Enrique.
I have been reading and posting here since the beginning, through all the turmoil of RinTinTin. I for one will sign up as soon as I can scrape up $25. Being that I have not been steadily employed for two years now, and with a family makes it tough. But I hope worthwhile.
“July 13, 2010 – Kevin says:
How is looking for talent anywhere and everywhere letting their guard down? Doesn’t make sense.”
Kevin, I believe Bob was pointing out, that not only have they made character a benchmark issue, but also the fact that by them publicly taking more than a look or two, at a talented player, they may be giving other teams the hint that they’re very interested, and willing to make a trade. Thus far, Pioli has been secretive about his trade deals, until they happen.
I’m a huge Chiefs fan living in Utah. First of all Harvey Unga is an upstanding citizen and person. His character shouldn’t be a concern. Harvey Unga the football player reminds me a lot of Larry Johnson. He has excellent hands, and is surprisingly quick for a big back. If the Chiefs can land this guy, they would be fortunate. The fact that they are even looking at this guy really says a lot about their scouting program.
I wonder if Tony Moieki is a little pissed off at his sister for getting knocked up and getting kicked out of BYU also? I wonder if Unga did come to the Chiefs, if Moieki would have something coming to Unga?? This would be good for Hard Knocks!! No, but seriously they (moieki & Unga) may be friends already if tony’s sister is engaged to him…
@UtahChiefsFan:
Thanks for the insight. It’s very much welcomed.
July 14, 2010 – arrowhead1978 says:
I wonder if Tony Moieki is a little pissed off at his sister for getting knocked up and getting kicked out of BYU also?
That thought crossed my mind as well, but i would bet that they are friends and he’s wishing with all he has that he becomes a chief! or, it cut end up as the moeaki/unga cage match!
@ Danny W
Actually my dad Is frdnch but my mom didn’t speak a word so they chose jeanluc because it was the only French name she could pronounce because…. She was a huge fan herself :p
As for Unga, everyone will make mistakes, but it takes a man to admit to those mistakes and to shoulder the repercussions. I still wouldn’t bid higher then a 5th for him
If KC goes after Joshua Price-Brent, the NT out of Illinois, in the supplemental then you’ll know the team has relaxed. He’s a 6-1,330 LB nose tackle with Cinci Bengals type character issues.
There’s a couple more RB’s available in the draft from small schools, who no one seems to be talking about; so I gather they’re more late round or free agent types.
Tomorrow might be alittle bit interesting in the midst of this NFL dead time.