For desperate Chiefs, Kyle Orton move a 'no-brainer'

By ADAM TEICHER

The Kansas City Star

DAVID EULITT

Tamba Hali (left) and Javier Arenas pulled down Kyle Orton for a sack in a game against the Broncos last season.

As the Chiefs searched for an available quarterback who could help them salvage their season, there was really only one option. Kyle Orton was a veteran starter who had won a lot of games and, at 29, still should have some good football left in him.

So when Orton fell into their laps this week when the Broncos placed him on waivers, it wasn’t a difficult decision for the Chiefs to claim him.

“It was kind of a no-brainer for us with the situation we were in, first and foremost from a depth standpoint,’’ coach Todd Haley said. “Once the decision was made that Matt (Cassel) was going to be lost for the season, there was no other option as far as we could see.’’

Orton didn’t arrive in Kansas City in time to practice with his teammates Thursday. Haley, who said he had spoken with Orton over the phone, indicated Orton would join the Chiefs today.

“He had a couple personal things he had to attend to,’’ Haley said.

Haley said Tyler Palko would start Sunday night’s game against Pittsburgh at Arrowhead Stadium but said Orton could be available as a backup.

Orton could be ready to start the Dec. 4 game against the Bears in Chicago.

“Our goal will be to assimilate him as quickly as possible into our system,’’ offensive coordinator Bill Muir said. “We’ll play the best person. If he can help us win a football game . . . then he’ll be the starting quarterback.’’

Orton delivered some uneven performances as a starter over the years, one reason why the Bears and the Broncos have given up on him in recent years. But he’s had some big games, none better than a 296-yard, four-touchdown showing against the Chiefs last season .

“He’s been inconsistent,’’ Muir said. “But when he’s on, he’s been very good. Reference our game out there (last season). I hate to remember it. Lights out. He’s done that throughout his career.

“He’s an experienced quarterback. He’s got a strong arm. He would help any team.’’

Orton started 66 games with the Bears and Broncos over his six and a half NFL season. On that basis alone, it shouldn’t be long before he’s Kansas City’s starter. The Chiefs’ other two quarterbacks, Palko and rookie Ricky Stanzi, have one career start between them.

Haley, mindful of the upcoming game against Pittsburgh, wasn’t ready to go there.

“It will depend on Tyler,’’ he said. “He’s worked hard. He understands the offense. There’s a lot to be encouraged about. I’m excited to see the progression here Sunday night.

“(Orton is) a smart guy. I was very clear to him about where he was coming and what he was coming into. Tyler is the starter but the guy that gives us the best chance to win will always play at any position. Tyler understands that and every other position understands that.’’