Chris Canty Rumors: Chiefs Showing Interest in Former Giants Defensive Lineman

According to Mike Garafolo of USA Today, former New York Giants defensive tackle Chris Canty is drawing plenty of interest around the NFL after being released in a cost-saving move just last week. Garafolo reports that Canty met with the Tennessee Titans over the weekend and, according to his agent, Brad Blank, has a visit set up with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Canty is a versatile lineman who has experience playing all across the defensive front spread over eight seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and Giants.

The Chiefs will continue to operate in a 3-4 scheme under new head coach Andy Reid and defensive coordinator Bob Sutton. If signed, Canty’s flexibility would be well-served in Kansas City.

With Glenn Dorsey not expected back and Tyson Jackson owed close to $15 million in 2013, the Chiefs could look a lot different in the trenches come next season—something that would be a welcome sight for those that pay close attention to the team.

The Chiefs have expended several first-round draft picks on their defensive linemen recently, including both Dorsey and Jackson, who were selected in the top five in 2008 and 2009, respectively. Production has been sporadic out of these two, creating hesitancy for Kansas City to employ any new player along its defensive front.

However, that uncertainty can be vanquished with a veteran that the Chiefs can rely on. Canty fits that mold.

While Canty’s impact won’t always be seen, not being a high draft pick is a testament to how far he has come in his career.

It might be worth noting that Reid has experience coaching against Canty during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles. Any interest could stem from a firsthand view of the defensive lineman’s efforts on the field.

It may be a foregone conclusion that the Chiefs will look to add depth to a thin defensive line during the draft. But with quality options on the free-agent market—starting with Canty—Kansas City would do well to bring in quality contributors now rather than wait until its feet are held to the fire.

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