Predictions for Chiefs preseason opener vs. Jaguars

The preseason provides a great opportunity for many players unsure of their standing on the roster to make an impact and impress coaches. Rookies get their first taste of the NFL, and veterans shake off the rust from a long offseason with the Chiefs targeting the unprecedented three-peat.

The offense will see some of Patrick Mahomes, but the focus will be on the depth at wide receiver, considering all the speculation regarding Rashee Rice’s status. The play of Xavier Worthy will be watched critically in his first NFL game, along with veterans with much to prove, like Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore. The offensive line will be watched closely, especially with the competition at left tackle and potential options at left guard without Joe Thuney.

On defense, the focus will be on the young players in the secondary trying to fill the void left by L’Jarius Sneed at cornerback. Steve Spagnuolo has demanded a player step up during training camp, and the preseason opener against the Jaguars would be an ideal statement game for a player.

The preseason opener results don’t matter on the scoreboard, but it should be a competitive game with the reserves playing significant time.

Final score: Chiefs 24, Jaguars 17