Editor’s note: We produced this article prior to Willie Gay Jr. being placed on the injured reserve list, ruling him out for the next three weeks (more on that here). The news translates to Nick Bolton having a greater role in the Chiefs’ defense — at least until Gay is recovered.
Willie Gay Jr. (the 23-year-old 2020 second-round pick) and Nick Bolton (the 21-year-old 2021 second-round pick) make up the future of the linebacker position for the Kansas City Chiefs. Although they currently are developing at their own unique pace, and veteran linebacker Anthony Hitchens aims to have the best season of his career at a lighter weight, the long-term picture includes both Gay and Bolton patrolling the middle of the defense together.