Chiefs still hoping to lure Douglas

Topeka Capital-Journal, The, Mar 5, 2003 by Capital-Journal

The Kansas City Chiefs agreed to terms with another defensive player Tuesday, though not the one they covet most.

Dexter McCleon, a starting cornerback for the St. Louis Rams in three of the last four seasons, agreed to terms on a five-year contract. CBS Sportsline reported the deal to be worth $11 million with a $2 million signing bonus.

Having added a coverage linebacker in Shawn Barber and a proven cornerback in the past two days, the Chiefs now hope to complete the defensive trifecta with the signing of pass rushing specialist Hugh Douglas.

Douglas, who had 12 1/2 sacks last season with Philadelphia, visited with the Seattle Seahawks on Tuesday and was scheduled to arrive in Kansas City later that night, inclement weather permitting.

McCleon, a six-year veteran who two years ago had a career-high eight interceptions --- second-best in the NFL that year --- played in only 13 games (with three starts) with the Rams last year after he lost his starting position to Dre Bly. He was released by the team on Feb. 27 as a salary cap casualty. McCleon was scheduled to receive a $4 million base salary in 2003.

A 5-foot-10, 195-pound corner from Clemson, McCleon was a second- round draft pick in 1997 when the Rams were coached by current Chiefs coach Dick Vermeil. He started 54 consecutive games, including 15 during St. Louis' 1999 Super Bowl championship season. In six seasons with the Rams, McCleon had 20 interceptions.

"It's great to be reunited with coach Vermeil," McCleon said. "I feel right at home with him. He knows me and he knows I'll give him everything I've got."

McCleon, who played primarily as a backup safety last year, is expected to contend immediately for the starting position currently held by William Bartee.