Kansas City becoming New England West

Wednesday, the Kansas City Chiefs hired former Cleveland Browns head coach Romeo Crennel to be their defensive coordinator.  This announcement takes place one week after the Chiefs appointed former Notre Dame head coach Charlie Weis, offensive coordinator.  Both Crennel and Weis served in identical capacities for the New England Patriots, during the Pat's three Super Bowl victories in the early 2000's. Crennel was fired as Browns coach after the 2008 season.  He posted a 24-40 record during his four seasons in Cleveland.  Weis spent five seasons as the Fighting Irish head coach.  He tallied a record of 35-27, before being dismissed in early December.

The Chiefs evolution into the Patriot way of doing business began with the hiring of general manager Scott Pioli, prior to the 2008 season.  Pioli held the title of personnel director during the Patriots historic run of championships.  Pioli's most notable player transaction involved the drafting of quarterback Tom Brady, with the 199th pick in the 2000 NFL Draft.

The Chiefs are even trying to replicate the Patriots' success by signing or trading for Patriot players.  Prior to the 2009 season, quarterback Matt Cassel and linebacker Mike Vrabel were brought to Kansas City by Pioli.  Cassel was the Patriots starting QB in 2008, after Tom Brady was injured in week 1, ironically against the Chiefs.

The Kansas City Chiefs have not played in a Super Bowl since their victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IV, way back in 1970.  It appears that ownership's goal of returning to the big game hinges on surrounding head coach Todd Haley with as many Patriots as possible.