Nick Bolton has long been a key piece of the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense. However, an elbow injury limited his participation in training camp, forcing him to miss the entire preseason. His Week 1 performance against the Baltimore Ravens left much to be desired. Despite the Chiefs securing a 27-20 victory, Bolton struggled, especially in pass coverage.
Now, with the Cincinnati Bengals coming to town this week, Nick Bolton will look to put this rough performance behind him. The linebacker has shown resilience in the past, and the Chiefs are counting on him to bounce back and regain his form.
Nick Bolton’s Slow Start in 2024
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Nick Bolton’s performance last week against the Ravens was a departure from his usual consistency. His preseason absence seemed to impact his ability to stay in sync with the defense, leading to critical mistakes. According to Pro Football Focus, Nick Bolton allowed a passer rating of 149.3, giving up 56 receiving yards, including 37 yards after the catch. He was also charged with a touchdown in coverage, and despite recording three solo tackles and three assists, he missed two crucial tackles during the game.
The Ravens were quick to exploit Bolton’s struggles, particularly tight end Isaiah Likely and wide receiver Zay Flowers, who both made big plays at his expense. Nick Bolton’s missed opportunities, especially in pass coverage, were uncharacteristic and highlighted the importance of preseason reps that he missed due to his elbow injury.
Nick Bolton knows what’s at stake, not just for the team, but for his future. As he enters the final year of his rookie contract, every performance counts. With Kansas City already locking up other key players like center Creed Humphrey and tight end Noah Gray, Nick Bolton needs to prove his worth this season to earn a long-term extension. If he can return to his 2022 form, the Chiefs’ defense will be stronger for it.
Nick Bolton’s Importance to the Chiefs’ Defense
Despite a slow start in 2024, Bolton remains a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ defense. His ability to impact both the run game and coverage is crucial for Kansas City’s success. During the 2022 season, Nick Bolton had one of his best years, finishing with 180 total tackles (108 solo), two sacks, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. He played a pivotal role in helping the Chiefs reach and win Super Bowl LVII, recording nine tackles and returning a fumble for a touchdown.
In 2023, Nick Bolton missed part of the season due to injury but still contributed with 60 total tackles and three passes defended. He again shined in Super Bowl LVIII, leading both teams with 13 total tackles. As one of the league’s top linebackers, Nick Bolton is crucial to the Chiefs’ defensive identity, and his bounce-back will be essential for the team as they look to maintain their defensive stature from a season ago.
Final Thoughts
Nick Bolton’s Week 1 performance may not have been up to his usual standards, but the Chiefs will need him at his best for their upcoming game against the Bengals. With a history of strong performances and a crucial role in Kansas City’s defense, Nick Bolton has the opportunity to find his footing this week and lead his unit to success against another top contender in the AFC.
This week, Nick Bolton will face a tough test against Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals, who boast a high-powered offense. For the Chiefs to have success, Nick Bolton will need to limit the damage from star players like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, as well as any other Bengals players entering the middle zones of the field. Nick Bolton’s ability to recognize passing patterns and his nose for flying to the ball will be vital in stopping the Bengals’ offensive attack.
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