Getting some outside perspective on what Dee Ford brings to the table
The San Francisco 49ers made a blockbuster trade to acquire Dee Ford from the Kansas City Chiefs earlier this week. We have a pretty good idea of what Ford can do. I thought it’d be a good idea to get an outsiders perspective on the talented pass rusher, so I reached out to Pete Sweeney of Arrowhead Pride. Pete has watched Ford for his entire career. So if someone knows about Ford, it’s him.
1) How do Chiefs fans feel like they made out in the deal?
Based upon polls and fan reaction in Kansas City, I’d say that around three of every four Chiefs fans actually were in favor of moving Dee Ford. I think that has several factors: Ford’s injury history, his offsides blunder in the AFC title game and fan awareness of just how up against the cap the Chiefs were. The Chiefs defense was also so bad (as a unit) last year that I think many are ready for a fresh start.
What was one thing Ford did often that frustrated Chiefs fans during his career?
I think the best answer here is simply, get injured. Ford is a great player but so far through five years, he has been injury-prone. Ford had hamstring issues in 2016 and back issues that required surgery in 2017. 2018 was the first season of five in which Ford started 16 games.
What are the chances Dee Ford builds on his fantastic 2018 season?
Of the percentage I mentioned above, I would fall into the category of wishing the Chiefs would have retained Ford. I think the chances are high. Ford is a prideful player who has always wanted to be great, and he really hit his stride last season under outside linebackers coach Mike Smith (who left the Chiefs for Green Bay in the offseason). Smith taught Ford strategies on how to improve to an elite pass rusher, and Ford credits him with much of his success last season.
What is one thing Ford will do that we can look forward to next year?
Affect the quarterback. Constantly. He may not always get a sack, but Ford is capable of affecting the quarterback on every single play. He also is very good with the media. Despite a heartbreaking ending to his Chiefs season, he not only spoke to media members after the game but also the next day, something the players are not required to do.
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