‘He’s taking more chances’ — Chiefs DB coach Dave Merritt sees a new leader emerging in Kansas City’s secondary
Young guys are stepping up on the Chiefs’ defense.
After a shaky Week 1 performance, the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense has gotten back to form over the past two games.
The secondary in particular has made the biggest improvement. In Week 2 it allowed just 101 passing yards to Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, and in Week 3 held New York Giants QB Russell Wilson to 160 yards, while also intercepting him twice.
The Chiefs gave their young secondary a big vote of confidence when they decided not to re-sign veteran safety Justin Reid during the offseason. They were banking on players to step up, and according to defensive backs coach Dave Merritt, one has stood out above the rest.
Chiefs S Bryan Cook emerging as a playmaker and leader
While speaking to the media on Thursday, Merritt discussed how Cook has elevated his game.
“We told Bryan that he needs to take more chances,” Merritt said. “Be more aggressive in his coverage, and that’s what he’s doing. He’s playing the same position. There’s nothing new, but he’s actually understanding that when he gets this route concept, he can take a chance and take a shot at maybe trying to go make a play.
Merritt went on to tease Cook about a dropped interception last week against the Giants during a play which Cook was briefly injured on.
“Now, he should have caught the one in end zone (last week against the Giants). He got up pretending like his neck was hurt, and then came back. Basically, you alligator-armed that. Extend out there and catch the ball.”
Merritt then gave Cook his due.
“I think he’s just taking more chances. He’s more confident. It’s good to see Bryan on that ascending trajectory that we would like to see him on.”
Cook is entering the final year of his contract, so it will be important for him to put together the best season of his career. In 2024 he set new career highs in tackles (78), passes defensed (5), and interceptions (2). Cook and second year man Jaden Hicks are working toward becoming a dynamic safety duo, with Chamarri Conner and Chris Roland-Wallace also in the mix.
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