Chiefs HC Andy Reid reveals ‘one of the positives’ after losing preseason opener to Rams

The Kansas City Chiefs suffered a 20-12 defeat to the Los Angeles Rams in their preseason opener on Sunday, marking the seventh straight loss in preseason games. Head Coach Andy Reid acknowledged the loss, but found a positive in the performance of rookie running back Emmett Johnson. "He did a nice job. Ran hard and aggressively.

Some yards after contact there, which is a great thing. He's one of the positives coming out of this," Reid stated. Johnson finished the game with 12 carries for 59 yards (4.9 yards per carry) and three receptions for 10 yards, showcasing his versatility as a running back. With the addition of the fifth-round pick from Nebraska, Johnson could compete for a crucial RB2 role behind reigning Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III.

The preseason loss showcased the lackluster performance of the Chiefs, who rested key players like Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Rashee Rice. The team's backup offensive line struggled, resulting in multiple penalties that hindered promising plays. The most notable takeaway was Rams backup quarterback Ty Simpson's impact on the game, but for the Chiefs, it was merely an opportunity for their backup players to gain valuable game time and potentially secure a larger role moving forward.

The only player who shone brightly in this matchup was Johnson, while rookie wide receiver Cyrus Allen may need to prove his immediate viability through more on-field moments with Mahomes.