Kamal Hadden, a rookie wide receiver selected by the Chiefs in the sixth round, officially signed a deal worth $4.158 million, including a $138,388 signing bonus. For the former Tennessee standout, it’s a major step, and he expects to succeed in Kansas City like other late-round defensive backs have recently.
On paper, Hadden seems like the ideal candidate for Steve Spagnuolo’s plan. He is excellent at press coverage and has a physical profile that is uncannily similar to L’Jarius Sneed’s. In 2023, he had the most interceptions for the Volunteers and demonstrated his ability to rush the quarterback, a characteristic that Spagnuolo highly values.
Even though Hadden had ailments throughout his time in college, if he can stay healthy, he’ll be a steal at his selection capital.
Chiefs News: Rookie Contract Officially Signed by Kamal Hadden.
Hadden has an opportunity to gain snaps rapidly. He plays with an amazing physicality and is a seasoned special teams player. Hadden’s passer rating was only 31.7 when opposing quarterbacks were attempting to stop him, and he is skilled at taking down passes at the reception point.
Recent examples of mid-to late-round corners that Brett Veach picked and who went on to contribute well are Joshua Williams, Jaylen Watson, and even Sneed himself. If Hadden can maintain his health, he has every opportunity to become the most recent example.
It will be extremely difficult for Kansas City’s secondary to replace Sneed this season. He was one of the most effective cover corners in the NFL, and everyone benefited from his adaptability. To fill Sneed’s shoes, Hadden, Williams, Watson, Trent McDuffie, and Chamarri Conner will eventually need to step up.
For the time being, this is a significant victory for Hadden and the first of many significant milestones in his NFL career. Let’s hope he continues to play and that Kansas City allows him to thrive.
