After flashing potential during his rookie campaign and showing poise throughout voluntary organized team activities (OTAs), safety Jaden Hicks is embracing a more vocal, visible role in the Kansas City Chiefs’ secondary. And he’s doing it with the sting of last season’s Super Bowl loss as added fuel.

Veteran mindset in Year 2

When asked to break down a standout 7-on-7 play during OTAs, Hicks described the sequence with the kind of clarity that only comes from film study and instinct.

“It was a corner blitz. I know I got the one. I seen Xavier Worthy, so you know, that’s a speedy guy. Just tried to stay on top of him and obviously just make the play,” Hicks said. “And yeah, that just shaped out for me.”

It’s a quick moment in a padded-less OTA session, but it speaks volumes. Covering a burner like Worthy and staying disciplined in a disguised look shows Hicks is putting the mental reps to use. And he’s preparing to be on the field much more this season.

Embracing opportunity

“It’s a good group of guys right now,” Hicks said of the competition in the safety room. “We’re all competing, trying to earn that spot… I’m just trying to be my best, be the best for the team and go on from there.”

As a rookie last season, Hicks’ snap count grew steadily as the year went on. This year, he’s aiming to start fast and stay consistent.

He credits former Chiefs safety Justin Reid for accelerating his development.

“Justin Reid was a great help,” Hicks said. “He really did a great job taking me under his wing… just being savvy, know how to disguise the defense. That’s a big part of our scheme.”

Now, the student becomes the teacher.

“I think we all got a voice in this room… but I gotta step up, you know, be a voice out there. And, you know, just lead the defense.”

Growth from the rookie season

Hicks is far more grounded entering Year 2.

“Most definitely,” he said when asked if he felt more comfortable. “There’s still room to grow, but just keep stacking the days, keep getting better each day… I think that’s the most important thing for this year.”

He’s also dialed in on mastering the full defensive scheme.

“Just learning everything about the defense… playing multiple positions. You’ve got to learn what everyone else is doing,” Hicks explained. “So I think just staying in the playbook.”

That familiarity is paying off during OTAs.

“Being a rookie last year, with all that piled onto me, you know, your head’s scrambling, right?” he said. “Now that I’ve got it under control, it’s easier… I’m able to play faster.”

The drive after defeat

For Hicks and the Chiefs, last season’s Super Bowl loss still lingers. But it’s no longer a cloud; it’s motivation.

“Being there my first year, you know, that’s super cool, but I want to win. I want that ring,” Hicks said. “That’s something we’re all striving for.”

He senses the tone shift around the building.

“After this season, I think there was a little change. Everyone’s mentality just clicked up that much higher… It’s very professional, and the thing that we need to do this year.”

Looking ahead

As Kansas City reloads for another deep postseason run, Hicks’ development could be pivotal. The physical tools are there. The mental side is catching up fast. And now, the leadership spark is starting to show.

Asked to compare the Xavier Worthy coverage play to where he was a year ago, Hicks didn’t flinch.

“A year ago? You know, I think I still make that play,” he said. “I’m still the athletic safety. I can still make any play. I believe that.”

That belief is starting to resonate across the Chiefs’ defense. And if Hicks continues on this trajectory, he won’t just be filling shoes, he’ll be making his own footprint.