Phase One of KC Chiefs' 2024 Offseason Program Launches on Monday
Kansas City is taking another notable step this week, as the offseason program can officially begin for Andy Reid's club.
The Kansas City Chiefs still have quite a bit of time left before playing in any games again, but they're one step closer as of this week.
While clubs with new head coaches were permitted to begin their offseason workouts early, the reigning Super Bowl champions complied with the timeline for those with returning leaders. As of Monday, Andy Reid's bunch is officially able to launch its offseason program. The voluntary workout sequence is now eligible for the rest of the league, with Phase One being live.
According to the league, Phase One of the offseason program makes up the first two weeks. During this window, activities are "limited to meetings, strength and conditioning, and physical rehabilitation only." This is a low-stakes period for players to get reacclimated a bit and set the tone for the remainder of the offseason.
In the recent past, the Chiefs have given their players more freedom to navigate this specific leg of the offseason pathway themselves. Most notably, quarterback Patrick Mahomes' famous throwing and workout sessions down in Texas serve as a great chance for offensive players to build chemistry. The defensive side of the ball oftentimes sets up shop back in Kansas City but even then, there's been a strong remote element to the process.
Again, it's important to remember that Phase One is a voluntary portion of the offseason. Although it's helpful for all players to get some work in, it isn't required. There will be additional opportunities for veterans (and looming rookie pickups) to make progress.
Once Phase One is complete, Phase Two serves as a ramp-up of sorts. The NFL's breakdown dives into what is and isn't allowed in this segment of the program.
"Phase Two consists of the next three weeks of the program," the description begins. "On-field workouts may include individual or group instruction and drills, as well as 'perfect play drills,' and drills and plays with offensive players lining up across from offensive players and defensive players lining up across from defensive players, conducted at a walk-through pace. No live contact or team offense vs. team defense drills are permitted."
To cap things off, Phase Three marks the start of organized team activities (OTAs) for all 32 clubs. OTAs present opportunities for 7-on-7, 9-on-9 and 11-on-11 drills with no live contact. Kansas City's OTA dates are May 20-22 and 28-30, as well as June 4-7 before a mandatory minicamp from June 11-13.
Just over two months removed from their triumph over the San Francisco 49ers, the Chiefs are back to work. It may not be much, but Phase One is a stepping stone for what's to come and signals that the 2024 NFL Draft is right around the corner. Things are starting to heat up a bit, starting with this week.
