What will Kristian Fulton's return actually mean for the Chiefs defense?

When Kristian Fulton was signed in the offseason, it was with the intent that he would be a critical piece of the Chiefs' secondary. He plays a position of need that was hit hard by injuries in 2024, ideally filling a necessary void opposite Trent McDuffie, especially since Jaylen Watson was recovering from a broken fibula suffered in Week 7 of 2024. However, when Fulton arrived, he was recovering from an offseason procedure that limited his availability. He then suffered an ankle injury in Week 2 and has been hindered since.

His injury has proven to have a trickle-down effect on the entire Chiefs secondary. Today’s NFL is mostly played in sub-packages; therefore, there are at least five defensive backs on the field most of the time. Fulton’s injury has highlighted both the good and bad parts of the Chiefs' secondary.

Nohl Williams has played exceptionally well when given the opportunity—in fact, he’s been one of the highest-graded cornerbacks in the NFL. However, his opportunities have been few and far between as of late. In Monday’s game against the Jaguars, he interestingly only played four snaps.

Kristian Fulton is going to have to work his way back into a crowded cornerback room.

This has forced the Chiefs to play Chamarri Conner in the nickel slot more than they would likely prefer. Coverage is not his specialty, and it has cost the Chiefs in multiple games. He’s given up many big plays, including a critical pass interference penalty in the end zone against the Jaguars that not only negated an interception that would have sealed the win but also put the Jaguars on the goal line. From there, Trevor Lawrence ran it in for the game-winning touchdown. Conner just hasn’t been good in coverage situations.

So, where does this leave Kristian Fulton? So far, he’s only played 17 snaps on the season. In spite of this, I believe a role for him still exists, provided he is healthy and ready to contribute. Speed and quickness have always been a big part of his game; he’s someone who has excelled in the short-to-intermediate area due to his short-area quickness and his ability to close separation. Having his legs healthy is critical before putting him out on the field.

However, if he’s healthy, he should immediately provide depth and at least have a role in sub-packages for starters. Jaylen Watson has played some on the outside in sub-packages, as has Nohl Williams. Both are bigger corners whose physical presence matches up well outside. Fulton could provide some needed depth in sub-packages, perhaps as the fourth corner, providing some critical snaps in that role. Ultimately, everything is contingent on his health. Whatever the case, the Chiefs need this unit to get healthy and play better.