Ask Len: Chiefs New QB

Q: Len, do you think Matt Cassel is really a franchise a quarterback?

A: First we gotta explain what is a franchise quarterback … (watch for Len’s full answer)

Have a question for Len Dawson? Email us at asklen@kmbc.com

Ask Len, Feb. 19

Dolores Daniels asks:
Do you think they should change the way everyone is paid, for example, if you love the game so much then whe you win you get paid so much extra per game? Then we would see who loves the game.

Len’s answer:
The problem is, they are already under contract. Contracts don’t go lower, they only go higher. That’s because the agents are involved, and the player contracts are disclosed. Everyone can see what other players are making.

That means, if the Chiefs take the 3rd draft pick for a certain amount last year, they’re not going to pay the 3rd draft pick less next year.

The system is all screwed up. You shouldn’t get rewarded before you prove what you can do. The draft system helps enforce the way things are.

Ron Fletcher asks:
Hello Mr. Dawson, I have been a fan of the Chiefs ever since you were Q-back. My question is: How long do you feel it will take for the team to be a contender? Thank you, RWF

Len’s answer:
No one can really answer that question. It could happen quickly. The Miami Dolphins, for example, were turned around in one year. They went from losing 15 of 16 games in 2007 to going to the playoffs in 2008.

I don’t think the Chiefs will turn around that fast. I can see them taking 3 to 4 years before they’re a team that wins consistently.

Follow-up question:
What will lead to that change? Recruiting new players or better coaching?

Len’s answer:
You need the players. Coaching can only do so much. There’s a real need for players in many positions, on both offense and defense, whether you get those from the draft or the free agent system.

Do you have your own question for Len Dawson? E-mail us at asklen@kmbc.com.