Chiefs’ Marcus Cooper positive about potential switch from cornerback to safety
Cornerback Marcus Cooper practiced at safety during the Chiefs’ offseason workout Tuesday.
And entering the final year of his contract in Kansas City, he did it with a positive outlook.
Cooper made it clear after the Chiefs’ practice at the Arrowhead Stadium complex that his objective is to “focus on the here and now.”
“I have a new job,” Cooper said. “A new position.”
After his first season with the Chiefs in 2013, Cooper was named the team’s rookie of the year. He had 44 tackles and three interceptions.
But the past two seasons have been challenging. He has seen limited duty and totaled just 23 tackles and no interceptions since that solid rookie campaign.
Now, as he approaches a contract year, Cooper is looking at a potential position change. The team has stocked up on corners and might need him more at safety.
Instead of lamenting the past, Cooper finds motivation in the future.
“Looking at the past is just going to slow down my progression,” he said.
That outlook is what Chiefs coach Andy Reid wants to hear.
“I’d tell you it’s kind of the same kind of thing with (Ron) Parker,” Reid said. “He can play both (positions).
“He (Cooper) has had some good snaps for us here the last few days at corner, but he’s had some good snaps at safety, too.”
That versatility should be a plus in defensive coordinator Bob Sutton’s schemes.
“Bob’s got a couple little defenses there, different defenses there where he’s setting him back as a free safety and working some free safety with him,” Reid said. “He’s got good range and he’s smart; most of all, he’s a smart guy.”
Cooper intends to be ready wherever he’s needed this year.
“I’m just at a place where I continue to believe in myself regardless of what the situation is,” Cooper said. “The more reps I get, the more comfortable I’ll be.”
This story was originally published June 7, 2016 at 10:53 PM with the headline "Chiefs’ Marcus Cooper positive about potential switch from cornerback to safety."