The biggest personnel loss for the Chiefs during the offseason was veteran safety Justin Reid.

Reid played for Kansas City from 2022-2024, accumulating 265 total tackles, 23 passes defensed, three interceptions, and four sacks during that span. Not only will the Chiefs miss his production, but his vocal leadership as well.

Somebody will have to fill Reid’s void, and it could be fourth-year safety Bryan Cook. K.C. selected Cook in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and he really began to emerge toward the end of his rookie season. He became a starter in 2023, but missed five games with an ankle injury. He started all 20 games (including the postseason) in 2024.

While speaking to the media following OTAs on Wednesday, defensive backs coach Dave Merritt had big praise for Cook’s toughness and leadership traits.

“I thought he actually came back (from 2023’s injury) great,” Merritt said. “I mean, you would not have even known that the kid had something wrong with his ankle. He never complained. He never missed a rep. I don’t think that was an issue at all. I think Cook is in a position right now where he has an opportunity to step up and be the captain of the defense, and be the leader. Brian is a vocal guy for sure, and so when you look back and you think about some of the injuries that some of our guys have had, I don’t think that hindered him at all coming into this past season.”

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 will look to become a dynamic safety duo. Mike Edwards, who is entering his second stint with the Chiefs, will bring a veteran presence to the DB group.