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[Kansas City Chiefs]

5 free agent targets the Chiefs should consider signing

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - NOVEMBER 16: Romeo Doubs #87 of the Green Bay Packers runs after the catch during the game against the New York Giants on November 16, 2025 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

NFL free agency is almost a month away, and the Kansas City Chiefs could be buyers. They will need to make internal moves to manipulate the salary cap, but the Chiefs could be in good shape to acquire solid players if played correctly.

After a lackluster 2025 season, it will be interesting to see if general manager Brett Veach starts 2026 with a bang.

Here are five targets in free agency that could do so:

1. RB Rachaad White​

The Chiefs need running back help, and the Kansas City native could find his way home on an affordable deal. The running back free agency class is stocked with talent, but the asking price for the top-end players could be too high for Veach.

At the moment, White is projected to demand $7.5 million annually according to Spotrac, which would be a good payday for the veteran back, and a good deal for the team that signs him.

With the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, White has been in the starting mix since his rookie season, but took a backseat to Bucky Irving when he was drafted in 2024.

Rachaad White is a good downhill runner. Strong enough and quick enough in short bursts to break arm tackles, and has good vision to find extra yards at the second level. pic.twitter.com/SVgGhLbqPj

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) February 6, 2026

White is a bruising back and was very good in short-yardage and goal-to-go situations. He also possesses the strength and speed to break tackles once he gets going into space.

Whether the Chiefs want to add him to complement the only running back currently under contract — Brashard Smith — or pair him with a future rookie, White would be a great fit for a downhill run game.

White has also been a productive receiver and is sound in pass protection.

2. DT Logan Hall​

Hall’s career has not lived up to his early second-round draft selection back in 2022, but this feels like a Veach-type move.

Hall will only be 26 years old by the start of next season, and his physical stature and athletic profile — 6 feet 6 inches and 286 pounds — could be what the Chiefs are looking for in a player to back up Chris Jones, as well as provide veteran depth.

KC should take a shot at Logan Hall in free agency. Good athlete, quick off the snap, good flashes in Tampa, but not a great fit for their defense imo. Much better fit in KC's front. pic.twitter.com/PnxeM6ETzH

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) February 6, 2026

Jerry Tillery, Derrick Nnadi, and Mike Pennel are all free agents from the 2025 roster, and Hall could be a direct replacement for Tillery.

Although Hall only had a sack and a half last season, he had 5.5 in 2024. In Tampa Bay’s 3-4 front, Hall was forced to play head up on offensive tackles, but in Kansas City, he could slide inside and play as a 3-technique in relief of Jones.

3. WR Romeo Doubs​

Quietly putting together a solid 2026 campaign, Doubs has been a solid No. 2 wide reciever during his time with the Green Bay Packers, and is coming off of his most productive season as a pro. He was a go-to in the red zone for quarterback Jordan Love, finishing with 724 yards and six touchdowns.

According to Spotrac, Doubs is slated for an average of $12.5 million per season coming up, and while this may be steep, Doubs can bring a skillset to the table that multiple Chiefs free agent wide receivers could not in 2025.

Romeo Doubs would be a great fit for the Chiefs offense. Good at creating his own space, good downfield burst. Ball tracking and hands area plus. Hard to imagine him not being productive in the Chiefs system. Jmac vibes? pic.twitter.com/PmPE1Tnyya

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) February 6, 2026

Wide receivers JuJu Smith-Schuster, Hollywood Brown and Tyquon Thornton are all free agents, and none have the full skillset of Doubs.

Kansas City will likely add talent at wide receiver in the draft as well, but Doubs would give them an established veteran presence immediately, and could be thrown in the mix right away with Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy. Both Rice and Worthy have shown flashes over the last few seasons, but neither has taken the next step in their game.

Doubs would give Mahomes an established downfield presence to throw passes to, and hopefully become a security blanket.

4. TE Kyle Pitts​

The Chiefs are still waiting on a final answer from tight end Travis Kelce regarding his future, but there is little doubt that he would be back in Kansas City if he decides to play one final season. Regardless of that situation, the Chiefs should look to the future in free agency.

Pitt’s time with the Atlanta Falcons has been odd: 1,000 receving yards in his rookie season followed by three consecutive mediocre years. Then, in 2025, he totaled 928 yards with career-high marks in receptions (88) and touchdowns (5).

Pitts was never a great fit in head coach Arthur Smith’s scheme, but under head coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, Pitts showed what he could do in a spread-based offense.

Be cool if there were a world where Kelce and Pitts were both on the Chiefs. As important as TE is to Reid's offense it would be interesting if they actually splurged at the position for once. pic.twitter.com/in0dkVW5fS

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) February 6, 2026

Pitts is projected at $10.8 million AAV under Spotrac, which is steep for a tight end, but with a year of tutelage playing side by side with Kelce, Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid could be what unlocks Pitts’ full potential and helps him turn into an All-Pro caliber player.

5. DE Joseph Ossai​

In Chiefs Kingdom, Ossai may be most remembered for his infamous unnecessary roughness penalty in the 2022 AFC Championship game, when he shoved quarterback Patrick Mahomes out of bounds and set up agame-winning field goal.

Since that low moment in his career, Ossai has become a reliable player and will provide solid bend and quickness off the edge.

With his speed and quickness, Joseph Ossai would be a good complementary pass rusher the Chiefs could add on an affordable deal in 2026. His best season yet was in 2025, if he got a shot to get on the field and took coaching, he could be a nice addition for the edge group. pic.twitter.com/IZgnSeFbWz

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) February 6, 2026

The Chiefs need an injection of athletic ability at defensive end, and Ossai would immediately provide that. A solid first step helps him penetrate quickly, and he could become a good complementary player to Jones, defensive end George Karlafitis and possibly a highly drafted rookie.

Although he may not be a true fit for what defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is looking for in a defensive end, he would come in and immediately be a valuable “changeup” pass rusher, providing the Chiefs with the edge rush they have been lacking for a while.

Spotrac projects his average salary to be $9 million, which may be a bit steep, but the defensive line needs an overhaul, and adding athletic ability is a good place to start.

Who else should the Chiefs target in free agency? Let us know in the comments.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...nt-targets-the-chiefs-should-consider-signing

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 2/7: Travis Kelce’s return ‘looking more real than ever’

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 04: Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs warms up before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The latest​

What I’m hearing at the Super Bowl about Maxx Crosby, Bill Belichick, Travis Kelce and more | The Athletic

• Kelce was seen bouncing around San Francisco parties and events, even as the soon-to-be-married man’s next move remains uncertain. While retirement has been discussed, many close to him believe he could return for at least one more season. A final decision has yet to be made, but a 14th season is looking more real than ever.

Here are the top five reasons the Chiefs aren’t playing in this year’s Super Bowl | Kansas City Star

1. Fourth quarter flops

As I said, the list could grow long. But let’s start with the story of the Chiefs’ season.

For seven years, their magic had been turning early deficits into late wins.

This year? Poof. The magic was gone.

In the 14 games Patrick Mahomes started, the Chiefs had at least a 50% win probability in the fourth quarter in 12 of them. Yet they were 6-8 and gone from the playoff picture by early December. They couldn’t close out a win. They couldn’t come back from a deficit.

“It just flipped on us,” head coach Andy Reid said of one-score games.

Kansas City Chiefs fans have allegiances on both sides of Super Bowl LX between Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots | A to Z Sports

When Kansas City acquired QB Matt Cassel in a trade with the Patriots in 2009, then 33-year-old Mike Vrabel was a throw-in on the deal. He played his final two NFL seasons with the Chiefs, starting 30 games for the team. During that span, he recorded 100 total tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, seven passes defended, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. He was also used in the red zone on offense at times, catching two passes for three yards and two touchdowns.

It wasn’t glamorous, as Vrabel only won 14 of those 30 games played with the Chiefs, but it was more than an asterisk at the end of a great NFL playing career.

“I remember being a team that was [4-12] one year and 10-6 the next one — won the division — I was proud of that,” Vrabel said back in 2019. “The fans — I remember the fans. The Hunt family — great people. It was a great place to finish up my career, a great town, the kids loved it.”

Former Chiefs LB Darron Lee charged with 1st-degree murder in Tennessee | KSHB 41

Lee was charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence. Additional charges could be pending following the outcome of the investigation, the sheriff’s office said.

Upon arrival, first responders located a female victim and attempted life-saving measures.

“Due to the condition of the victim and the residence, HCSO Criminal Investigative Services Detectives responded. Preliminary findings indicate the victim’s death was the result of a homicide,” the Hamilton County sheriff’s office said in a statement.

Around the NFL​

NFL coaches pick the Super Bowl: Seahawks clear favorite, but Patriots have paths to victory | The Athletic

Offensive coordinator: Either QB could blow it

Seattle is a more talented football team, but right now, the Patriots have a horseshoe up their ass and confidence that is affecting their ability to win games.

Both teams have the ability to win it on defense, which, to me, keeps it close.

If New England turns the ball over or if Seattle is hitting on all cylinders on offense, they have the firepower between the back (Kenneth Walker III) and the wideout (Smith-Njigba) and the system to put up a lot of points fast.

If it becomes a blowout, I don’t see New England capable of blowing out Seattle. I see Seattle capable of blowing out New England.

I see it being a close game because of two good defenses that I think are going to both play decent. I don’t see either quarterback stealing the game. I see a good, solid football game with good scheme and solid players. Mike Macdonald is the best there is as a defensive play caller, and Josh McDaniels is the best on offense.

How Patriots, Seahawks are bringing Zombieland to Super Bowl | ESPN

Nicknamed “the Zombieland,” the celebration has accompanied some of the biggest moments of the Patriots’ season en route to Super Bowl LX, but its origin is rooted 1,000 miles away and three years ago in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where a pair of Western Kentucky defensive backs came up with the move as they posed for pictures at a team media day in 2022. Since then, the celebration has crisscrossed the country from Western Kentucky to Washington State to the Miami Hurricanes to the NFL thanks to an upwardly mobile offensive coordinator, a future No. 1 draft pick and social media.

And now, nearly 3½ years after its inception, the celebration could hit the worldwide stage at Levi’s Stadium as the Patriots take on the Seattle Seahawks in Sunday’s Super Bowl (6:30 p.m. ET, NBC).

“It’s just crazy,” former Western Kentucky wide receiver Daewood Davis told ESPN. “Just to see something we created in a practice in Bowling Green, Kentucky, just having fun playing football and now it’s one of the top celebrations in the world for high schoolers, for college, for NFL, for celebrities, man. It’s such a surreal moment for us.”

Jim Schwartz resigns as Browns DC after being passed up for team’s head-coaching job | Yahoo! Sports

After the Cleveland Browns passed him up for their head-coaching vacancy, Jim Schwartz is resigning as their defensive coordinator, the team announced Friday.

Schwartz is not free to move on to another job for the 2026 season, however, as he remains under contract with the Browns because he resigned and was not fired. According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, he’s expected to sit out the season.

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

A clear path to Chiefs’ offseason success includes Trent McDuffie trade

The Chiefs enter the offseason more than $54 million over the cap, according to OverTheCap’s calculations. Cutting Jawaan Taylor, Mike Danna, Drue Tranquill and Noah Gray would save nearly $40 million against the cap. Restructuring Patrick Mahomes’ deal could save up to an additional $44 million. Starting with those five moves would bring the Chiefs’ available cap space to approximately $28 million. That sounds like a big number until you start adding players to the roster.

Taking into account the Chiefs’ projected draft pool ($12.7 million) and a free agent running back (approximately $5-10 million), suddenly, there’s only $5-10 million left to spend on free agency. It gets tight, quick.

Unless…

Kansas City adds roughly $13 million by trading McDuffie. From a cap perspective, it’s a simple move. His fully guaranteed salary would not result in any dead money on the books.

Social media to make you think​

Our Fan of the Year nominee, Dr. Yvette Richards, is representing Chiefs Kingdom in San Fran pic.twitter.com/YA0yTxsf1X

— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) February 6, 2026

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Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...vis-kelces-return-looking-more-real-than-ever

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Super Bowl predictions 2026: Chiefs fans pick Seahawks to win

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA- FEBRUARY 4: A general view in outside of Levi's Stadium with the Seatle Seahawks, Super Bowl XL and New England Patriots banners being displayed prior to Super Bowl LX on February 4, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Each week, we send out questions to the most plugged-in Kansas City Chiefs fans. You can see all of the recent survey results here.

And be sure to check out FanDuel Sportsbook, the official sportsbook partner of SB Nation.

Who do you think will win Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots? The game will kick off at 5:30 p.m. Arrowhead time in Santa Clara, California. Levi’s Stadium will host the ultimate contest of the 2025 season.

For Chiefs fans, there isn’t natural loyalty to either side. Patriots’ head coach Mike Vrabel spent the final two seasons of his playing career with the Chiefs, earning 48 tackles, one forced fumble and a pass defended while starting 16 games for the AFC West champions in 2010.

On the other side, the Seahawks’ closest connection to Kansas City is being a former division rival in the old AFC West, before division realignment in 2002. Former Chiefs’ defensive tackle Jarran Reed — who spent one season totaling an underwhelming 2.5 sacks for Kansas City in 2021 — is hardly garnering a rooting interest from Chiefs Kingdom.

Without much of a reason to support either team, Chiefs fans likely stuck to logic when answering the following question.

Who will win the Super Bowl?​

An overwhelming amount of the polled fans believe the Seahawks will end this season as the champions, and the Patriots’ revitalization will fall short of the franchise’s seventh title since the turn of the century.

The nationally polled fans agree with Chiefs Kingdom, and so do the betting markets. The Seahawks are currently a 4.5-point favorite on FanDuel Sportsbook.

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Can the Patriots pull off the upset? Should football fans be so confident in Seahawks’ quarterback Sam Darnold? Who will win the game’s MVP? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...edictions-2026-seahawks-patriots-winner-picks

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Rich Gannon reminisces on the 1997 Chiefs at Radio Row

Rich Gannon #12, Quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs calls the play to his offensive line in the huddle during the American Football Conference West game against the San Diego Chargers on 20 September 1998 at the Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri, United States. The Chiefs won the game 24 - 17. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The backstory​

In 1997, the Kansas City Chiefs were the best team in the NFL. Their offense was headlined by a declining, yet still productive running back in Marcus Allen, veteran wide receiver Andre Rison — who found a second life in Kansas City — and a rookie tight end named Tony Gonzalez.

However, the spine of that 1997 team was its defense. Headlined by Hall of Fame linebacker Derrick Thomas, and supported by guys like Dan Williams, Donnie Edwards, James Hasty, Dale Carter, and the often forgotten about, Mark “Mighty Mouse” McMillian.

The 1997 Chiefs had 21 interceptions and 20 forced fumbles, and boasted the NFL’s top-ranked defense.

Kansas City opened the season with a Week 1 loss to the Denver Broncos, but rebounded by winning six of the next seven games, and rolled into Week 10 with a 6-2 record, ready to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers at home.

The Steelers jumped out to an early 10-point lead in the first quarter, but it was all Chiefs in the second quarter, who came back thanks to a pair of Pete Stoyanovich field goals and a 14-yard touchdown pass on a trick play from Allen to wide receiver Danan Hughes.

That was all the defense needed. Kansas City pitched a shutout in the second half and won 13-10.

But that’s not why we are talking about this game. Late in the fourth quarter, starting quarterback Elvis Grbac suffered a brutal hit that broke his collarbone and sidelined him for the remainder of the regular season.

Enter Rich Gannon​

Gannon was a ten-year veteran, on his third team and had been with the Chiefs for a few seasons. Little did Gannon and the rest of Chiefs Kingdom know that his life was about to change forever.

Gannon didn’t do much in Pittsburgh: He went five for five for 23 yards. His real coming-out party happened the following week, when, despite losing on the road to the Jacksonville Jaguars, he threw for a team season-high 314 yards.

That was the last game the Chiefs lost for the rest of the regular season. With Gannon at the helm, the Chiefs’ defense tore through the remainder of their schedule, holding opposing teams to an average of just 10.8 points per game.

If you’re old enough to have lived through this story, then you know how this story ends.

The Chiefs finished 13-3 and secured a first-round bye in the playoffs. The stage was set to face off against the John Elway-led Broncos in the Divisional Round at Arrowhead Stadium.

Leading up to the game, the team doctors cleared Grbac to return to football, which left head coach Marty Schottenheimer with a conundrum. Do you revert to your starting quarterback, or do you ride the hot hand?

Ultimately, Schottenheimer elected to give the reins to Grbac. The result was that the offense sputtered, Grbac struggled, and the Chiefs came up short. Losing a nailbiter 14-10.

Gannon’s perspective​

Gannon spoke with “The Zone” with Jason Anderson on 810 Sports Radio WHB, live from Radio Row at Super Bowl LX this week, and was very candid about his opinion of Schottenheimer’s decision to go with Grbac.

“As much as I love Marty, I thought that was probably the worst decision he has ever made as a head coach,” Gannon told Anderson. “You just don’t change when you have momentum like that.”

Don’t take Gannon’s comments as a shot across the bow at his former coach. Gannon told the radio host, “I loved playing for Marty. I had a great experience in my four years in Kansas City. Two of those three years, we go 13-3, but lose to the Colts in a home playoff game and lose to the Broncos… that team that lost to the Broncos was a team that was really, really good enough to win a Super Bowl.”

“I’ve talked to some Broncos players that were on that team,” Gannon continued. “And Mike Shanahan said to them, ‘Hey, we have to prepare… Gannon’s going to be the guy.‘ Then found out Marty was going to go with Elvis Grbac, and he said, ‘hey, we have a chance.’”

It’s not that Gannon thought he was better than Grbac. It’s that Grbac wasn’t ready to start. “In fairness to Elvis,” Gannon explained. “He wasn’t even in football shape. He had been rehabbing, he wasn’t ready to play the game…”

The ‘97 Chiefs defense was good enough to win the Lombardi with just about any healthy quarterback. And they proved it by holding the eventual champs to just 14 points.

“John Elway and Terrell Davis, those guys scored 14 points against our defense. Now think about that: if you would’ve said before the game, ‘all you have to do is score more than 14 points,’ you would’ve taken it all day…”

“I played on a lot of good football teams, I’ve played against a lot of good defenses, and that was a phenomenal defense… all we had to do is not throw up on ourselves, and we would’ve won, and of course, we would’ve won the following week. That was a good football team.”

And that’s the true shame of it all. It was one of the best teams Kansas City ever put on the field, and they squandered a legitimate chance at greatness.

All they had to do was tell Gannon they believed in him and trust him with the keys to the ship.

”That’s the one thing I never got in Kansas City. It was never my team. Carl Peterson and Marty Schottenheimer, they went out and signed Steve Bono after Joe Montana left. Then, after two years of that, they went to sign Elvis Grbac, another 49er guy. No one ever put their arm around me and said, ‘You know what, you’re our guy, we’re going to run with you until I got to Oakland with Jon Gruden and Al Davis.”

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans.../rich-gannon-reminisces-1997-chiefs-radio-row

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Super Bowl 2027 odds: 7 teams are more likely to win than Chiefs

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 9: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs scrambles out of the pocket during Super Bowl LIX against the Philadelphia Eagles at Caesars Superdome on February 9, 2025 in New Orleans, LA. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The 2025 season officially concluded with the Seattle Seahawks’ dominant victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX. The football world is ready to turn the page to the 2026 season.

According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Seahawks are currently the favorite (+750) to win next season’s championship, Super Bowl LXI. In a close second is Seattle’s division rival and opponent in this year’s NFC Championship: the Los Angeles Rams (+800).

Here are the next five teams by lowest odds:

• Baltimore Ravens (+1200)
• Buffalo Bills (+1200)
• Green Bay Packers (+1300)
• Los Angeles Chargers (+1500)
• Philadelphia Eagles (+1500)

The bookmakers have seven NFL teams — three from the AFC and four from the NFC — more likely to win next year’s title than the Kansas City Chiefs, who are tied with the Detroit Lions at +1600 odds.

The defending AFC champion Patriots are the next in line with +1700 odds.

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What do you think? Do the Chiefs deserve to be outsiders in the Super Bowl LXI conversation? What teams are the oddsmakers too high on right now? Get the discussion going in the comments!

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...8/super-bowl-2027-odds-chiefs-7th-lowest-odds

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs free agents 2026: Travis Kelce, Leo Chenal lead list

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - OCTOBER 12: Tight end Travis Kelce #87 and wide receiver Marquise Brown #5 of the Kansas City Chiefs warms up prior to the game against the Detroit Lions at Arrowhead Stadium on October 12, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The NFL season concluded on Super Bowl Sunday with the Seattle Seahawks’ victory. 31 other teams are chomping at the bit to prepare for the 2026 season.

In just over a month, this year’s class of unrestricted free agents will be available to negotiate contracts with other teams on the open market. Wednesday, March 11th, is the first day of the new league year, although the “legal tampering” window opens on Monday of that week.

Before that, NFL teams will have to make decisions on which pending free agents to use the Franchise Tag on. The window to designate that player is between February 17th and March 3rd.

The Kansas City Chiefs are already busy shaping up the roster for next season. For fans, the first step is knowing which players ended the season with the team, but are not on the 90-man offseason roster currently, as they prepare for free agency.

Here’s the list:

The Chiefs’ pending 2026 free agents​

Tight end Travis Kelce
Linebacker Leo Chenal
Cornerback Jaylen Watson
Safety Bryan Cook

These are the headliners, with the question of retirement being an added layer to the top name on the list. Travis Kelce attended the festivities surrounding Super Bowl LX, and the conversations from the week have created a report that he and the team will be communicating soon.

The remaining three players — all three starters on the Chiefs’ defense — should be seeking multi-year deals with long-term security. With Kansas City’s cap situation, it’s hard to imagine the Chiefs being the team to offer that to all three of them.

Wide receiver Hollywood Brown
Wide receiver Tyquan Thornton
Running back Kareem Hunt
Running back Isiah Pacheco
Wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster

This group of skill-position players will be interesting to follow. Through two seasons, Brown has not quite tapped into the impact he was projected to make with the Chiefs, whether it’s his health or his quarterback’s. He feels like a candidate for a one-year, prove-it deal again, even if it isn’t a return to Kansas City. Hunt and Smith-Schuster appear to be in a similar boat.

On the flip side, wide receiver Tyquan Thornton could take advantage of an upstart fourth season as a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Even while it felt he could be featured more in the Chiefs’ pass offense, Thornton set career-high marks in receiving yards (438), touchdowns (3) and first downs (15). He led all qualified pass catchers with 23.1 yards per reception for the 2025 season.

Thornton may earn a payday on the open market, and it will be interesting to see if Pacheco has done enough in his career to secure a contract that suggests he will continue as a starting back in the league.

Defensive end Charles Omenihu
Defensive tackle Mike Pennel
Defensive tackle Jerry Tillery
Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi

This group of veteran defensive linemen has been fascinating to monitor over the years. Multiple names on this list have been re-signed to one-year deals in past offseasons to continue in Kansas City. It’s clear that guys like Pennel and Nnadi are trusted by the coaching staff, but younger players with more potential need to replace the roles filled by this group at some point.

Quarterback Gardner Minshew
Linebacker Jack Cochrane
Running back Dameon Pierce
Cornerback Joshua Williams
Cornerback Nazeeh Johnson
Tight end Robert Tonyan
Safety Mike Edwards
Safety Deon Bush
Defensive end Janarius Robinson
Long snapper James Winchester

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This is the Chiefs’ unrestricted free agent class of 2026. Who do you think the team should re-sign? Which players feel more likely than others? Let us know in the comments and The Feed as we kick off free agency coverage this week.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...free-agents-2026-travis-kelce-hollywood-brown

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

AP Mailbag: What is the Chiefs’ salary cap philosophy?

Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Welcome back to the Arrowhead Pride Mailbag! Throughout the offseason, watch for your opportunity to submit your Kansas City Chiefs questions in The Feed, which is found on AP’s home page.

After Super Bowl LX, the NFL offseason is officially underway. Right now, the Chiefs appear about $58 million over the expected 2026 salary cap with 54 players signed. Let’s see what is on our readers’ minds about how Kansas City navigates the limit.

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OzarkEd asks:​

My question is very basic. To an outsider it appears to be a very complex calculation to determine a team’s total cap hit in a season. Yet, it also appears rather simple to restructure contracts to clear up needed cap space. What’s the point of having a salary cap if all a team that’s $50+ million over has to do is restructure a few contracts?

The NFL introduced the salary cap in 1994, which then was an astounding $34.6 million per team. The league’s owners have done a remarkable job of spinning that it is good for competitive balance. The cynic in me suspects that, truly, the owners wanted to control spending and have a mechanism to police each other from letting contracts get out of hand.

Initially, the salary cap closely resembled actual team budgets. Over the last 30 years, however, lucrative national broadcast contracts have put the league’s teams on equal footing. As such, teams have been freer over the last decade to push the boundaries of the salary cap.

Significant signing bonuses used to be rare outside of football’s elite talent. Now, the first year of almost every free agent deal is built around a signing bonus — that can be spread over up to five years — to manage the cap. Void years that make a two-year deal look like a five-year pact on paper for cap purposes will be covered later.

I am not one to say the cap is fake, but it has proven easily manipulated. One area that teams have had less success skirting is the league’s funding rule, which requires owners to immediately secure most future guaranteed salary on contracts via deposit in an escrow account. Every team has proven willing to test the limits of the salary cap. Not every ownership group is eager to repeatedly shell out needed cash for excessive spending.

The funding rule, more than the salary cap, is the reason for the currently perceived haves and have-nots.

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nmt1 asks:​

I’d like to understand why the Chiefs seem to be constantly in cap trouble whereas other teams always seem to be able to pretty much do whatever they want. I just don’t understand why some teams, like the Chiefs, are always strapped and others never seem to be.

To refer to the previous question, the Chiefs appear to have a firmer cash budget than some of the teams that are annually cited as free agency’s biggest winners.

General manager Brett Veach’s approach to the salary cap has been somewhat clear since the big money on quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ extension started kicking in around 2023.

The Chiefs value flat contracts. Examples are tackle Jawaan Taylor’s contract, paying exactly $20 million each year in Kansas City, or linebacker Nick Bolton’s deal that pays him $15 million annually. The earnings on the first year of each contract are mostly via a signing bonus that spreads the first-year earnings over the life of the contract. Thus, most of Kansas City’s big-money free agents see the salary cap impact of the contract’s second year increase dramatically.

The Chiefs also tend to spend their salary cap space a year ahead of time. Later in the week, we will cover the moves I expect Kansas City to make to get under the cap and have some room to add free agents. Spotrac estimates that the team has about $80.8 million in hypothetical 2027 salary cap space. Much of that will be allocated this spring as free agents are added.

This process has repeatedly led to the Chiefs rarely having significant salary cap space to roll into the next season and annually looking stretched thin financially. However, Veach and his crew have been good at stacking contracts (and having multiple restructure avenues) in a way that avoids any true salary cap crisis.

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EdPodolak asks:​

Why don’t the Chiefs like to use voidable years? Are the Chiefs being consistently low on “dead money” part of that?

For definition, void years are fake seasons added onto a contract to spread out signing bonuses that nullify at the start of a given league year. A player can sign a two-year contract for $30 million. A team can then designate most of the earnings as a signing bonus. The team could then add three “void” years onto the contract to greatly reduce the initial cap hit. The downside is that the rest of the signing bonus will accelerate when the player reenters free agency and be charged as “dead money” on the salary cap, even though the team would owe no more actual money to the player.

The Chiefs have not jumped on this trend that the Philadelphia Eagles seem to excel at. Time will tell if the yearly increases to the cap are enough to keep the Eagles’ bills from coming due in a way that puts them into a horrific cap situation.

While Kansas City generally avoids pushing cap charges into the future via void years, the post-2027 portion of Mahomes’ 10-year contract mostly serves the same purpose. Unless you believe Mahomes will willingly play in 2028 for less than $28 million (he won’t), the remainder of his deal serves little current purpose other than restructuring massive cap charges to manage current free agency.

Tight end Travis Kelce will be an interesting case. He is a free agent who will require a new contract if he returns in 2026. Should he play again, I suspect the Chiefs will be more willing to use void years to pay Kelce a fair salary while maintaining flexibility. I would also expect him to be nominally signed through 2028 to allow the Chiefs some cap relief if his retirement was processed after June 1, 2027.

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PettyMahomes asks:​

How badly has Veach hamstrung the Chiefs by trying to retain many of his drafted talent at non-premium positions – LB Nick Bolton, C Creed Humphrey, G Trey Smith? Or will the ability to do simple restructures on these contracts to make them tenable in the short term?

The biggest reasons the Chiefs seem hamstrung against the cap are massive, currently scheduled cap hits for Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones. The two cap numbers combine to be over $123 million. With the pair scheduled to earn almost $92 million, there is a limit to what can be done to minimize the cap impact.

I see a lot of criticism for Veach regarding contracts for Bolton and the two interior linemen (as well as defensive end George Karlaftis). Provided the Chiefs continue to find contributors on rookie deals, I don’t think these contracts are significant problems. Veach has shown a willingness to reward players who dependably take on high snap counts.

Bolton’s three-year contract has minimal room for restructure. Should the Chiefs take a value swing at linebacker in April’s draft, however, they would easily be able to move on from Bolton in 2027 with less than $5 million in deal money.

Smith’s $23 million per season contract is not out of line with the current guard market. He could be a candidate to be restructured for cap room, though that could potentially make his 2027 cap number exceed $34 million. At any rate, Smith’s contract is structured to give the Chiefs flexibility to move off of the final season in 2028 if the team so chooses.

Humphrey is likely to be Mahomes’ center as long as the quarterback wants to receive snaps from him. By getting on his deal early, the Chiefs were able to defer Humphrey’s large cap hit until the upcoming season. He is also an option to restructure, although he might again find himself an extension candidate a year from now.

The Chiefs have been wise with structure when taking care of their own talent, although players at premium positions will prove a bigger test. Whether cornerback Trent McDuffie is extended or traded is among this offseason’s biggest questions. Should left tackle Josh Simmons pick back up as one of the league’s best in 2026, the clock will instantly start ticking to the 2028 offseason, when he would become extension eligible.

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Thank you for reading this week’s Arrowhead Pride Mailbag! Later in the week, we will have a look at the Chiefs’s options for cap relief. Keep watching The Feed for an opportunity to ask your questions for our next offseason edition.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kansas-city-chiefs-roster/194075/chiefs-mailbag-week-23-salary-cap

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Exploring the Chiefs’ options at tight end this offseason

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 02: Travis Kelce #87 and Noah Gray #83 of the Kansas City Chiefs take a moment during the NFL 2025 game between Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan Bennett/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The tight end room for the Kansas City Chiefs might look different in 2026. Travis Kelce is a free agent mulling retirement, and there is nothing settled about the room around him.

The Chiefs must make offseason moves to boost the impact of tight ends next season. First, let’s discuss where the team should move forward with tight ends in the offensive scheme.

What the team needs ​

Since Kelce is either at or near the end of his career, it’s the right time to evaluate what the team needs from that position group moving forward.

The first thing I want to see: more depth at tight end. The best offenses in the NFL now feature multiple tight ends making an impact in 12 or 13 personnel, creating matchup advantages. It adds layers to offense and can help dictate what the defense does.

The Chiefs’ depth at tight end over the past three seasons hasn’t been good enough. Particularly, this shows up in blocking, which has been a limitation of the offense. The unit can’t play the tight ends in line, even though some of that has been by preference: head coach Andy Reid prefers calling shotgun-based runs to enable the run-pass option game.

However, even if the Chiefs tried getting under center and running more downhill runs, there would be challenges because the tight ends cannot handle the key block on edge defenders.

Kansas City needs to find a tight end similar to Brock Wright from the Detroit Lions. Wright doesn’t catch many passes and is cheap, but he’s critical to run and pass blocking.

The Chiefs can also acquire pass-catching depth at tight end, especially as Kelce leaves or declines, but the focus should be on unlocking the run game with tight ends.

Current Roster Decisions​

Kelce is a free agent, so the Chiefs would need to negotiate a contract with him if he is to return, but who knows what his price would be.

If Kelce wants to return, then the Chiefs should find a way to make this work. Even with everything that went wrong last year, Kelce still had a good season. In fact, I believe his performance in 2025 was better than either 2024 or 2023. That doesn’t mean 2026 will be as good as 2025, but he can still contribute to the offense, on top of continuing to be a valued member of the locker room.

The question will be how large his role is, which is hard to answer without knowing the other moves the team makes. Ideally, Kelce is more of a part-time player in the regular season, being used on third downs and when Kansas City wants to get into heavier personnel and go under center. Kelce is best at finding space on a free release, so using play action can help make his job easier.

Regardless of what happens with Kelce, it shouldn’t change the decision to release Noah Gray, which would save the Chiefs $3.97 million. Gray finished last season with 178 receiving yards. The Chiefs can find 178 receiving yards for cheaper than that, and Gray limits what the run game can do.

The other tight ends on the roster are Jared Wiley, Tre Watson, and Jake Briningstool. All three of these guys are fighting for roster spots and shouldn’t be counted on to play snaps next year.

Free Agent Options​

If Kelce doesn’t return, the Chiefs could splurge at tight end. Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts is definitely the best receiving option, but he’s not a helpful blocker, and he will be expensive. Kansas City may not be able to be the top bid.

Isaiah Likely from the Baltimore Ravens is also an option for a receiving tight end, and an exciting one at that. Likely doesn’t bring blocking talent to the Chiefs, but he’s a smooth route runner who can make absurd catches.

A couple of veteran options are Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku or Philadelphia Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert. Goedert doesn’t excite me as much with his injury history, but he is a true Y-tight end that can block. Njoku has more playmaking ability, but he could be expensive at 29 years old still.

To find cheap blocking depth, Kansas City could look at Chicago Bears tight end Durham Smythe, Ravens tight end Charlie Kolar, or Indianapolis Colts tight end Mo Alie-Cox.

Draft Options​

Without in-depth knowledge of this year’s draft class, the top is interesting. Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq is a vertical tight end who can stretch defenses, but he’s also fluid and can create separation on routes. He’s going to be best at stretching the seam, but he can do more; Oregon used him as an X-receiver as well.

However, there are some warts in Sadiq’s package. He is strong and competes as a blocker, but he is short and lacks notable length. He would have potential limitations translating to an in-line tight end. It doesn’t mean he is not a worthwhile draft prospect, but it does change whether he is a smart choice for the ninth-overall pick.

If the Chiefs want to draft a tight end on Day 2, here could be some options:

• Max Klare, Ohio State
• Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt
• Jack Endries, Texas
• Michael Trigg, Baylor
• Eli Raridon, Notre Dame

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans.../exploring-chiefs-options-tight-end-offseason

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

B/R Mock draft matches Chiefs with a potentially ‘dominant’ receiver

Sep 26, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) scores a touchdown against the TCU Horned Frogs in the first half at Mountain America Stadium, Home of the ASU Sun Devils. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Reiner-Imagn Images | Jacob Reiner-Imagn Images

We are still less than two weeks away from the NFL Draft cycle kicking into high gear at the Scouting Combine, but the Kansas City Chiefs will be more interested in the top of the draft class than ever with the ninth-overall selection.

The NFL scouting department at Bleacher Report authored a first-round mock draft that matched the Chiefs with one of the most polarizing players in the draft.

9. Kansas City Chiefs: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State

As long as Patrick Mahomes is at quarterback, the Kansas City Chiefs can compete at the highest level. Right now, he isn’t healthy and the team is coming off its worst season since he took over the offense.

As a result, the Chiefs have an opportunity to add a top talent and get everything back on track.

In this instance, they have their choice of wide receivers to give Mahomes a more consistent threat.

Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson can be a dominant NFL wide receiver, as long as he remains healthy after suffering multiple collegiate injuries.

“Tyson’s medicals will be highly anticipated at the Scouting Combine in a few weeks,” Parson said. “Depending on those results, he’s the most skilled wide receiver in the draft. Tyson’s blend of dynamism, short-area quickness and route-running upside fits well with Andy Reid calling plays. The Chiefs need a potential difference-maker at wide receiver, and Tyson offers exactly that.”

My analysis​

In this mock draft, Tyson is the first receiver off the board, with Carnell Tate of Ohio State still available. Those appear to be the most likely selections if Kansas City is motivated to draft a no.1 wide receiver for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

By consensus, USC wide receiver Makai Lemon is also in range of a top-10 pick, but he fits a similar mold to what the Chiefs have been employing at wide receiver.

Wish he'd separate easier against physical coverage — but there's no denying how much of a downfield threat Tate is off free releases pic.twitter.com/TVfv19lmNM

— Ron Kopp Jr (@RonOnChiefs) February 8, 2026

Tate profiles as the downfield threat that the Chiefs need to unlock the deep-passing attack again. He is great at the catch point, shows high-level awareness of body positioning on the sideline and understands how to manipulate back-pedaling defensive backs.

There are a lot of positives to the 6-foot-3 playmaker, but Tate was the number-two receiver alongside phenom Jeremiah Smith, who will likely be one of the first picks in the 2027 NFL Draft. He excels against off-coverage that allows him free releases; he does not separate from tight coverage as easily as the Chiefs need from the ninth-overall selection.

#Chiefs need a real separator at the WR position, someone who can get themselves open

Jordyn Tyson has the moves to be that guy pic.twitter.com/GZThsXPetH

— Ron Kopp Jr (@RonOnChiefs) February 11, 2026

On the other hand, Tyson flashes separation ability throughout the games he has played at Arizona State and Colorado over the last four years. He appears to be the strongest fit for what Kansas City desires to pair with receivers Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy, but reviews of his medical history at the Combine could make or break Tyson’s stock.

As a freshman in 2022, Tyson played in nine games for the Buffaloes before tearing his ACL, MCL and PCL, forcing him to miss the remainder of that season and 2023. He transferred to play with the Sun Devils in 2024 and became the number-one receiver over 12 games before suffering an upper-body injury that forced him to miss the Big 12 championship and the College Football Playoff. It was later revealed to be a broken collarbone.

This past season, Tyson suffered a hamstring injury in October that forced him to miss time, then left the late-November game against Arizona due to injury.

The list of injuries could end up being a red flag, but the Chiefs have done their homework in prior draft classes to find talented players in this category, like right guard Trey Smith and left tackle Josh Simmons, even if each has different circumstances.

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Does Tyson’s injury history scare you away from this pick? Do you prefer Tate or Lemon to boost the receiving corps? Let us know in the comments.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-matches-chiefs-potentially-dominant-receiver

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

REPORT: Chiefs will hire DeMarco Murray as running backs coach

Oklahoma running backs coach DeMarco Murray during the Red River Showdown college football game between the University of Oklahoma (OU) and Texas at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Saturday, Oct. 8, 2022. Texas won 49-0. Lx18797

The offensive coaching staff of the Kansas City Chiefs has experienced plenty of change this offseason, and now, the staff reset feels complete with the reported hire of a new running backs coach.

Sources: The #Chiefs are hiring former NFL RB and current Oklahoma RBs coach DeMarco Murray as their RBs coach on Andy Reid’s staff.

Murray has been coaching on the college level since 2019 and now makes the jump to the NFL. pic.twitter.com/wytgW1nstm

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 12, 2026

According to NFL Insider Jordan Schultz, the Chiefs will be hiring DeMarco Murray, the former NFL running back who has been on staff at the University of Oklahoma as running backs coach since 2020. Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports reported Murray as an emerging candidate earlier on Wednesday evening.

After a seven-year NFL career that featured three Pro Bowl seasons and a 2014 campaign worthy of the Associated Press Offensive Player of the Year award for the Dallas Cowboys, Murray spent one season analyzing college football in 2018 before joining the coaching staff at the University of Arizona.

He quickly moved on in his coaching journey to his alma mater, Oklahoma, where he was once a first-team All-Big 12 running back and developed into a third-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.

At the age of 30, Murray retired from the NFL with 7,174 career rushing yards and 49 career rushing touchdowns, and he will be 38 years old in his first season as an NFL coach.

Murray will join Chiefs wide receivers coach Chad O’Shea as brand-new position coaches for the franchise, setting a tone for the second stint with Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator. Kansas City had requested to interview Las Vegas Raiders running backs coach Deland McCullough, who was formerly in Kansas City occupying that role, but it appears he will continue under the Raiders’ new head coach, Klay Kubiak.

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How do you feel about the reported hire? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...hiefs-hire-demarco-murray-running-backs-coach

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Oklahoma perspective on Chiefs’ DeMarco Murray: ‘Old-school mentality’

Oklahoma running backs coach DeMarco Murray walks on the sideline during a college football game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Houston Cougars at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024.

On Wednesday evening, a report broke indicating the Kansas City Chiefs will be hiring Oklahoma running backs coach DeMarco Murray to the same position. As he turns 38 years old today, Murray is seemingly ready to leap from collegiate coaching to the NFL after seven years (six at his alma mater).

The former AP Offensive Player of the Year for the Dallas Cowboys was first an All-Big 12 back for the Sooners, and took a lot of pride coaching this generation of Oklahoma running backs. That was clear from a segment on 96.5 The Fan Thursday morning, when co-hosts Bob Fescoe and Dusty Likins interviewed Jesse Crittenden, an Oklahoma beat reporter and editor for OU Insider.

Crittenden began by emphasizing how tough a decision this may have been for Murray.

“He’s coming to Kansas City because he wants to be there, specifically,” Crittenden began. “I think it’s important to know that DeMarco Murray is an OU guy… he has been at OU for the last six years and has loved being at his alma mater. He has been chased by a lot of top programs, and even some NFL programs, over the last few years, but continued to stay at OU because he loved to be there so much.”

“I think this jump to Kansas City is because he wants to be there,” Crittenden emphasized. “He wants to be with the Chiefs, he wants to be on Andy Reid’s staff, and I think he is excited about jumping from college football to the NFL.“

The beat reporter elaborated, mentioning that big-time programs like Ohio State and Michigan — even the Philadelphia Eagles of the NFL — have shown interest in Murray before. Yet, when the Chiefs reached out, it was hard to turn down.

“Andy Reid and that staff reached out to OU and [head coach] Brett Venables in the last few days once he became a real target for the Chiefs staff,” Crittenden said. “I think he really thought about staying at OU despite how exciting that opportunity was. I think the opportunity to coach under Andy Reid and be on that staff was a real thing for him. I think the culture in Kansas City, obviously, the success they’ve had over the last several years, played a huge role for him.”

“As much as I think he likes the idea of jumping to the NFL, he wasn’t going to do it for just any reason,” Crittenden declared. “If he was going to do that, he could’ve done it a few years ago… For him, it’s not only the jump to the NFL, but I think it’s the opportunity to learn on that staff and develop himself as a coach.”

When asked about Murray’s performance as the running backs coach from 2020 to 2025, Crittenden acknowledged it was not all highs with no lows. However, it seemed to start with two anecdotes of development.

“His first couple of seasons, in 2020 and 2021, the running game was good; he developed guys like Rhammondre Stevenson,” Crittenden reflected. “Even in 2022… Eric Gray was one of the best runners in college football that season and eventually got drafted, and that kind of came out of nowhere. Eric Gray kind of went from a change-of-pace back guy to a true, bellcow running back and was one of the biggest bright spots that season.”

“You look at the last three years, and he has done really well as a recruiter,” Crittenden continued. “He has done a really good job of getting young talent in the door, but there have definitely been some ups and downs with that.”

Interesting that DeMarco Murray draws the blame for OU’s run game and not the two head coaches and four offensive coordinators in six years running two Air Raid schemes and two spread schemes.

Context is king. Murray is well respected and Chiefs aren’t the first NFL team to… https://t.co/v2MttlBXfe

— Matt Derrick (@mattderrick) February 12, 2026

With that fact in mind, Fescoe and Likins asked if there was anything to an Oklahoma fan’s input from the text line that Murray was a “hard-nosed” coach, similar to new Chiefs’ offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy.

“I think there’s real excitement from DeMarco to be with Bieniemy, as well,” Crittenden noted. “There is definitely a hard-nosed component to it. Even a couple of years ago, maybe the best OU running back, Tawee Walker, missed a game because he kind of got into a verbal altercation with DeMarco Murray. When you talk to players that have been in the program, he definitely coaches really, really hard.”

“Even this last year, OU added Jadyn Ott out of Cal,” Crittenden continued. “I think Jadyn Ott was easily one of the biggest transfer-portal players in the country. When OU got him, it was a big deal: he was on All-SEC preseason teams, I think a lot of people were expecting him to be a 1,000-yard rusher… You get to the end of the year, and he didn’t have 100 rushing yards. He barely played, and I think some of that was… once you got in the door, did you work hard enough? Did you fit the system well enough? He barely stepped on the field.”

Ott was a standout at this year’s Senior Bowl, leading to further questions about why he didn’t make an impact for the Sooners in 2025.

It’s clear the match with Bieniemy, Reid and Kansas City sold Murray on leaving Norman, Oklahoma. However it came to fruition, Crittenden believes it will be a strong move for the Chiefs.

“There’s kind of an old-school kind of mentality that he brings, and I do think that could be a real asset to the Chiefs in the NFL.”

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...ve-chiefs-demarco-murray-old-school-mentality

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs hire former coach who Chris Jones has given a lot of credit

ST. JOSEPH, MO - AUGUST 12: Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) smiles as he walks to the field before the start of practice during training camp on August 12, 2025 at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, MO. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

On Wednesday, the Kansas City Chiefs seemingly added to the coaching staff with two hires — but one has been further confirmed by local media. Friend of the site Pete Sweeney of the Kansas City Star followed up with confirmation on a report by Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports that a former Chiefs coach was returning to the defensive staff.

Terry Braden is indeed headed back to the #Chiefs, a source confirmed to The Star: https://t.co/Ipeq9UbYPb https://t.co/iIZi7sGRxP

— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) February 12, 2026

After one season with the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Terry Bradden will return to the NFL and Kansas City as an assistant defensive line coach. That was the role he occupied for the Chiefs from 2021 to 2024, following time as a defensive quality control coach.

Bradden made an impact on Chiefs’ All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones during his time in Kansas City. In the lead-up to a game in the 2022 regular season — the year Jones was honored as first-team All-Pro for the first time — Jones credited his position coaches for recent success. This is from an article on Chiefs.com.

The Chiefs have 35 sacks this season as a team, which ranks fifth in the NFL and already bests Kansas City’s sack total from all of last year (31). It’s collectively been one of the best pass-rushes in the league, and though the Chiefs’ personnel along the defensive line features many of the same players from last season, Jones insists that the difference this year is two guys: Defensive Line Coach Joe Cullen and Assistant Defensive Line Coach Terry Bradden.

“We have some of the best coaches in the building, and we’re just very fortunate,” Jones said. “We have a very good group. [It’s] a very young group, [and we have] a lot of hungry guys in our room…[They] want to show that they belong in this league.”

That formula has worked well so far this season, as 13 different players have recorded at least one sack on the year. Seven of those players are members of the defensive line, which only re-enforces the impact of Cullen and Bradden on this year’s group.

“I think between both of those guys, the players have responded to them,” said Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. “I’m glad that the big guys have responded to [their style], and hopefully, we keep cranking away and playing good football.”

Following the second time Jones was named first-team All-Pro in 2023, Jones named Cullen and Bradden to give credit. He expressed his gratitude during a Wednesday press conference leading up to the 2023 NFL Divisional Round.

“Give credit to my coaches, Joe Cullen, and Terry Bradden,” Jones said to local media. “The commitment those guys force out of me, and the players in the room push me beyond measure. ”I think a leader can’t be a leader without great teammates; it takes an army to be great, and those guys push the best out of me each and every day to get the best out of me. I don’t think I can accomplish something like that of that measure without having great teammates and guys who push the best out of me day in and day out.”

In training camp leading up to the 2024 season, Jones used his leadership to emphasize how important it is to absorb Cullen and Bradden’s coaching. Pete Grathoff of the Kansas City Star pointed that out at the time.

“We out there, we shooting with technique. Cause when you get tired, the thing you rely on is what the coaches do: technique, whether it’s bad technique or good technique. Coach Joe and Terry can teach all this, but at the end of the day, it depends on us. We gotta hold each other accountable. You know what I’m saying? Enjoy today, learn from it and because tomorrow, it’s a whole new day. But hell of a day, man. I don’t want to take anything away from it, will you build off of that and keep grinding dogs.”

After one season away from the Chiefs, Bradden will come back under Spagnuolo and Cullen. The evidence suggests Chris Jones will approve of the move as well.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...fs-hire-former-coach-chris-jones-given-credit

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

How the Chiefs will find 2026 salary cap space before March 11

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - AUGUST 22: Brett Veach, general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, watches pregame warmups prior to the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Chicago Bears and Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on August 22, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images) | Getty Images

On January 30, the NFL informed clubs that the 2026 salary cap would be set between $301.2 million and $305.7 million.

The Kansas City Chiefs are likely hoping the final number is as close to the maximum as possible. Per Spotrac — now using an estimated $303.5 million cap — Kansas City is approximately $58 million over the limit with 54 players signed for 2026. All teams must be under the final salary cap when the new league year starts on March 11.

Let’s look at some likely paths for general manager Brett Veach to create salary cap space. As always, the salary cap should not be confused with the team budget; we have no way of knowing what internal spending parameters Veach may have to work around.

Cut candidates​

Significant heavy lifting can be accomplished by moving off the final (non-guaranteed) seasons of three contracts.

Most observers expect right tackle Jawaan Taylor to be released. The four-year, $80 million contract he signed with Kansas City in 2023 has proven controversial due to his tendency to draw penalty flags. Although Taylor has been a solid blocker for the most part, his health is also in question. Taylor was listed on every weekly injury report in 2024 and 2025 with a knee injury before suffering a season-ending elbow injury in November.

While cutting Taylor would leave about $7.4 million in dead money, the Chiefs can open $20 million in cap space by moving on, so this feels like an expected decision.

Parting with defensive end Mike Danna — and saving $8.9 million — might also be a no-brainer. Danna’s snap counts plummeted in the season’s second half as rookie Ashton Gillotte’s playing time increased. The veteran finished with an underwhelming box score: one sack and 25 total tackles. Danna could also take a significant pay cut with the possibility of earning some money back through incentives.

Linebacker Drue Tranquill has $6 million in non-guaranteed earnings for 2026. While that is not an excessive amount for a player who was in on 85% of the team’s defensive snaps last season, the production could probably come at a lower cost. 2025 fifth-round selection Jeffrey Bassa is in-house, and linebacker is arguably this draft class’s strongest position.

Releasing tight end Noah Gray would open a modest $4 million — although almost a fourth of that would instantly be allocated to whichever minimum salary enters Kansas City’s top 51 figures. The Chiefs probably won’t cut Gray for immediate cap relief, although they could move on later in the offseason after other moves.

Kansas City could also approach Gray after the NFL Draft — when 90-man rosters are full, and most team budgets are spent — about taking an incentives-laden pay cut. After only totaling 178 receiving yards (and no touchdowns), Gray would be an easy player to build a contract around, with incentives considered “not likely to be earned” for cap purposes.

Don’t expect the Chiefs to release cornerback Kristian Fulton or tackle Jaylon Moore for cap compliance. While cutting the pair could open about $12.9 million in combined cap space, both players are owed their actual 2026 salary, meaning the Chiefs would risk paying them to play for another team. While neither free agent signing from a year ago played to expectations, the Chiefs would also be wise to keep both players at least for depth purposes at the bare minimum.

Restructures​

Two Kansas City cap numbers loom large above the salary cap: quarterback Patrick Mahomes at $78.2 million and defensive tackle Chris Jones at $44.9 million.

Obviously, Mahomes’ number will be reduced. The bigger question will be if the Chiefs do another restructure (that could clear $44.4 million in cap space) or sign him to a new contract. Because Mahomes’ actual salary drops to an unrealistic $28 million in 2028, he is effectively only signed through 2027, no matter the seasons nominally remaining on the extension signed in 2020.

With no quarterbacks leaguewide in line for a new, massive contract this offseason, it may be time completely redo Mahomes’ pact with Kansas City in a way that frees funds now while creating a roadmap to navigate finances for much of the remainder of his career.

Jones is a more difficult question. The Chiefs may very well decide to restructure him again. Regardless of his status in team history, however, the front office needs to have some difficult conversations about the earnings Jones is due through 2028. With $35 million in guaranteed 2026 salary, Jones will remain in Kansas City at least one more season. While restructuring him could open as much as $22.5 million in additional salary cap space, leaving the number untouched would allow for more lucrative savings if the Chiefs were to move on completely in 2027.

The Chiefs could also open $12.5 million by restructuring guard Trey Smith and $8.9 million with center Creed Humphrey. The team may be hesitant to raise Smith’s 2027 cap number to potentially $34 million, however. Humphrey will likely be an extension candidate again before his contract expires in 2029. Avoiding a restructure could maintain flexibility in the future to redo his deal. These are also moves the Chiefs could keep in their back pocket should cap needs arise later in the offseason or even after actual games start.

The bottom line​

Kansas City’s current cap situation isn’t pretty, but it can easily be managed. A maximum restructure of Mahomes (or a completely new contract), paired with releasing Taylor, Danna and Tranquill, could quickly take the team from a $58 million deficit to a $20 million surplus. Other avenues exist for the Chiefs to fit almost any realistic signing under the 2026 limit.

The organization will make some early moves to be cap-compliant and to possibly be a factor early in free agency. Other moves, however, may wait until the team has a better idea of which players they can realistically sign — and how much salary cap space will actually be needed.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...fs-find-2026-salary-cap-space-before-march-11

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

In this week’s ‘Reacts’ poll, Chiefs’ fans stake claim of free agents

DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 16: Tyquan Thornton #80 of the Kansas City Chiefs makes a reception defended by Ja'Quan McMillian #29 of the Denver Broncos during the third quarter at Empower Field At Mile High on November 16, 2025 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Each week, we send out questions to the most plugged-in Kansas City Chiefs fans. You can see all of the recent survey results here.

And be sure to check out FanDuel Sportsbook, the official sportsbook partner of SB Nation.

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Pick one offensive free agent to re-sign​

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Polled Chiefs fans were tasked with picking one of three options to re-sign from the pending free agents in Kansas City’s offense: wide receivers Tyquan Thornton, Hollywood Brown or running back Kareem Hunt.

The overwhelming majority would like to see Thornton back, presumably to play more and further the production he had as more of an afterthought in 2025.

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Pick one defensive free agent to re-sign​

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Polled fans in Chiefs Kingdom were asked to pick one of three options to re-sign from the pending free agents on the Chiefs’ defense: cornerback Jaylen Watson, safety Bryan Cook or linebacker Leo Chenal.

In a tighter race than the offense, Chenal was favored by nearly half of voters to continue ascending in Kansas City as one of the league’s most underrated playmakers at the position. The defensive backs received votes, but some fans may believe Watson and Cook are more replaceable than the talent Chenal brings to the team.

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Click here to see other recent survey results.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/nfl-reacts-survey/194319/week-24-results-chiefs-fans-pick-free-agents

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs mock draft roundup: Jeremiyah Love dominates prediction for nine

Nov 1, 2025; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love (4) runs with the ball to score a 94 yard touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Boston College Eagles at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Edward Finan-Imagn Images | Edward Finan-Imagn Images

We are still over two months away from the 2026 NFL Draft, so there is plenty of time for predictions on the 32 first-round picks to change. The Kansas City Chiefs hold the ninth-overall selection, making this one of the most anticipated drafts in the team’s recent history.

Since the regular season ended, the Arrowhead Pride staff has been monitoring all of the mock drafts authored by NFL media to see which players are being matched with the Chiefs most often. We have compiled information from 29 unique mock drafts published by 15 different outlets since January 12.

The most often-chosen player is no surprise to anyone following the early parts of this year’s draft cycle.

Chiefs’ selections in mock drafts​

The top 4 most picked, as of February 12

RB Jeremiyah Love — Notre Dame (41%)
DE Rueben Bain Jr. — Miami (17%)
S Caleb Downs — Ohio State (14%)
WR Jordyn Tyson — Arizona State (10%)

My takeaway​

The momentum for Love has been prevalent since the end of the Chiefs’ disappointing 2025 season, one that featured a subpar rushing attack and two primary ballcarriers preparing to hit free agency.

However, the hiring of offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy and running backs coach DeMarco Murray could strengthen the argument to select Love, whose talent could make him one of the highest picks in recent history at the position: the Las Vegas Raiders drafted Ashton Jeanty with the sixth-overall pick last year and the Atlanta Falcons selected Bijan Robinson with the eighth pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Those are the only two backs selected in the top 10 since the 2018 draft, when Saquon Barkley was selected by the New York Giants.

After matching the Chiefs with Downs a few weeks ago, Nate Tice and Charles McDonald of Yahoo! Sports wrote Love as Kansas City’s pick in the February, post-Super Bowl edition. In January, the Athletic’s mock drafts had the Chiefs selecting Downs or Bain — but the updated version from Nick Baumgardner gives Love to Kansas City.

One simple explanation is the allure of Downs, who may not be available by the time the Chiefs pick in April. Tice and McDonald wrote Downs into the fifth-overall pick of the Giants — but on the flip side, Baumgardner picked Love with Downs still on the board. In his mock draft, Bain is the second defensive player off the board to the Tennessee Titans at four.

Bain feels like a polarizing prospect, but one that the Chiefs should absolutely be targeting with the top-10 pick. Can the same be said about Tyson, the wide receiver with a college career severely impacted by injury?

Three mock drafts from three different outlets matched the Chiefs with the potential no.1 receiver. At the same time, only one national source we tracked went another route to draft a wide receiver: former ESPN NFL draft analyst Todd McShay, in the McShay Report newsletter, wrote Ohio State’s Carnell Tate as the answer to Kansas City’s quest to boost the receiving corps for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

The top three most selected players for the Chiefs’ selection at nine make sense — but does Tyson fit in that group as one of the most likely options? What high-profile draft prospect is missing from mock drafts picking for Kansas City? Let us know in the comments.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-roundup-jeremiyah-love-dominates-predictions

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 2/14: Chiefs make coaching hires official

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, seen here at a 2024 practice, led the Chiefs to the AFC's No. 1 seed. (Emily Curiel/The Kansas City Star/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

The latest​

The Kansas City Chiefs make new coaching hires official

The Chiefs posted the following message on X Friday evening, confirming the multiple reports of hirings:

We have added the following coaches to our staff for the 2026 season:

DeMarco Murray — Running Backs Coach
Chad O’Shea — Wide Receivers Coach
Terry Bradden Jr. — Assistant Defensive Line Coach
Nate Pagan — Offensive Quality Control
CJ Cox — Defensive Quality Control

What type of player can the Chiefs land at No. 9 in the NFL Draft? | The Kansas City Star

2023: The Philadelphia Eagles select defensive tackle Jalen Carter.
No. 8 overall: Atlanta selects RB Bijan Robinson | No. 10 overall: Chicago selects T Darnell Wright.

Kansas City unfortunately knows Carter well from Philadelphia’s domination up front in Super Bowl LIX. While Carter didn’t make the box score, KC chose to double-team him frequently, opening up the door for his linemates to register multiple sacks.

Carter was a second-team All-Pro in 2024, and his attention in the trenches can be compared to a young Chris Jones.

There is a running back in this year’s draft who has drawn analysts’ comparisons to Robinson, who was taken at No. 8 in 2023: Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love. Some have expected the Chiefs to go in that direction. There were outstanding players littered throughout 2023’s first round, including Jahmyr Gibbs (No. 12), Christian Gonzalez (No. 17) and Jaxon Smith-Njigba (No. 20).

The Chiefs used their 31st-overall pick to take defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah.

One Chiefs Veteran Quietly Fighting for His Job This Offseason | KC Kingdom

Chamarri Conner Will Be Fighting for Job with Chiefs in 2026

Connor has been a contributor for the Chiefs over the last three seasons, playing on defense and special teams. Last season, Connor saw a career-high 1,022 defensive snaps. He was asked to play all over the field, including slot corner, free safety, and in the box.

While he recorded 117 total tackles and four tackles for loss in 2025, Connor left a lot to be desired in coverage. He allowed 56 receptions (68 targets) for 643 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Pro Football Focus graded Connor 53.2 overall (82nd among 98 graded safeties) and a 46.7 coverage grade (86th among 98 graded safeties).

Connor also had a 63.5 run-defense grade (75th among 98 graded safeties). The Chiefs gave him an expanded role, but there clearly were areas in which he struggled. The Virginia Tech product is entering the final year of his rookie deal in 2026, placing more pressure on the coaching staff to get this right as veteran Bryan Cook is set to hit free agency in March.

Brees Tells Chiefs’ Kelce Classic Story About Schottenheimer | Sports Illustrated

The year before Schottenheimer arrived in San Diego, the Chargers drafted Drew Brees in the second round. And even though Brees beat out Flutie in 2002, Schottenheimer made every day a job interview for Brees. The new Hall of Famer shared the story with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce on this week’s edition of New Heights.

“He backed me up for three years after that,” said Brees, referring to Flutie. “I was benched three times in those three years with Marty Schottenheimer. Yeah, the first one, I deserved it. The second one, kind of. The third one, I didn’t think I deserved it, and I was pissed.

“And had a knock-down, drag-out screaming match with Marty Schottenheimer on the sideline in December, at Pittsburgh, and then in the hallway after, and then in his office the next day.”

Travis Kelce fully understands why Clark Hunt would have Chiefs play in Kansas | The Kansas City Star

Kelce is saddened by the thought of the Chiefs leaving GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, but he fully understands why CEO and chairman Clark Hunt would move the team across the state line.

“The owners, they get so much more opportunity getting to the outskirts of the city,” Kelce said. “And it’s hard to argue with those opportunities, and we’re dealing with it right now in Kansas City. We’re going over to Kansas, but at the same time, it’s like, if you look at that deal in terms of an owner, like that’s one of the greatest opportunities you could ever get as an owner.

“And I think it’s going to be unbelievable once it’s finally set in stone. But it is going to be kind of heartbreaking knowing that the Chiefs are going to move away from Arrowhead and that Missouri side of Kansas City.

“It’s just a part of the old, you know, professional sports. It is a business at the end of the day.”

Around the NFL​

NFL wins grievance against NFLPA regarding report cards | ESPN

The NFLPA has conducted and distributed the results of anonymous player surveys since 2023 — and had already collected surveys throughout the 2025 season for the latest installment of the report cards to be published in spring 2026. The league filed its grievance to stop the practice in the fall, saying it violated the agreement clause that states NFL owners and the union must “use reasonable efforts to curtail public comments by club personnel or players which express criticism of any club, its coach, or its operation and policy.”

Instead, the memo states, teams should continue to solicit feedback from their players directly, and the NFL’s Management Council will work with the NFLPA to design and conduct a survey that collects players’ opinions regarding the “adequacy of medical care under the CBA.”

Prior to Friday’s ruling, players across the NFL expressed their support for the report cards.

Best trade fits for Maxx Crosby: Potential landing spots for Pro Bowl pass rusher | NFL.com

Maurice Jones-Drew
NFL.com Analyst
PICK: Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars made big strides in 2025, winning the division after having just four victories in 2024, but their pass rush needs a boost if they want to continue that upward trajectory next season. Jacksonville just ranked 21st in pass defense and 27th in sacks, with Josh Hines-Allen leading the way with eight QB takedowns. Crosby would provide a much-needed boost to the defensive line and another dynamic pass rusher opposite Hines-Allen. With Crosby, the Jags could be true Super Bowl contenders.

Myles Garrett Cheers on ‘Amazing’ Girlfriend Chloe Kim as She Tries for Third Gold Medal at Olympics | People

The Team USA snowboarder — who is aiming to become the first ever to “three-peat” and win her third gold in the halfpipe at the Olympics — was cheered on by the Cleveland Browns defensive end, as seen in a video and photos shared by the franchise and the NFL on Wednesday, Feb. 11.

In the images, the two-time NFL defensive player of the year, 30, poses with his 25-year-old girlfriend. A video captured her soaring up and down the halfpipe.

According to ESPN’s SportsCenter, Garrett, toted a camera to take pictures of Kim’s historic run and repeatedly said “she’s so amazing, she’s so amazing,” as he watched from the stands in Livigno, Italy.

Kim was the only competitor to score above 90. She will be joined in the final round on Thursday, Feb. 12 by Team USA competitors Maddie Mastro and Bea Kim, who finished third and 10th in qualifying. Teammate Maddy Shaffrick did not advance to the final, finishing in 15th.

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

Chiefs 2026 offseason: Rank the positions of need before free agency

1. Defensive Line

The Chiefs’ defensive line struggled during the 2025 season, and heading into the offseason, the position is depleted. The team needs a combination of capable pass rushers and big bodies to stuff the run.

With a premier pick in the NFL Draft and a loaded defensive line class, Kansas City has a chance to pick one of the top defensive ends or tackles, but with multiple top-100 picks, the organization could double up and add multiple players to the defensive line.

Defensive tackle Chris Jones and defensive end George Karlafitis need help up front, and the draft will be a great spot for the Chiefs to replenish talent in the trenches.

Social media to make you think​

If you need an edge rusher, this is a good draft to double up. The depth of the class is impressive. I've got 10 guys worthy of a spot in top 50 players. There's another layer of traitsy players beyond that group.

— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) February 13, 2026

Follow Arrowhead Pride on Social Media​

• Facebook: Like our page
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• AP Staff on X: See complete list
• 90.9 The Bridge on X: Follow @909thebridge

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...4330/2-14-chiefs-make-coaching-hires-official

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Who are the best and worst Chiefs free agent signings?

PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 25: Joe Thuney #62 of the Kansas City Chiefs in action against the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 25, 2024 at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The successful NFL franchises understand that free agency should not be the primary avenue to building a championship team. The signings an organization makes in the spring — before the draft in late April — should be the cherries on top of a roster built on drafted, developed players.

There are times when a potential cornerstone player becomes available to sign. When it works out — like the Kansas City Chiefs signing eventual All-Pro right tackle Mitchell Schwartz in the 2016 offseason — it looks like a no-brainer, but there are plenty of big contracts that don’t turn out well. Chiefs Kingdom is not far removed from trading for and signing quarterback Matt Cassel as a franchise player, inking a six-year contract entering the 2009 season.

In the era of general manager Brett Veach, Kansas City has won three Super Bowls with plenty of aid from free-agent signings. There are strong candidates for the best and worst in this time, but one player stands above the rest in terms of impacting the team’s unprecedented success.

Best: LG Joe Thuney — Class of 2021​

After two Super Bowl titles as a starting guard for the New England Patriots, Thuney became one of the most sought-after free agents entering the 2021 season. That timed up with the Chiefs coming off a dismal performance in Super Bowl LV against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Veach did not mess around with fixing the offensive line to ensure the protection of quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

After releasing starting left tackle Eric Fisher and right tackle Mitchell Schwartz, Kansas City prioritized Thuney in free agency to lead the new era of the Chiefs’ offensive line. Later that offseason, the team drafted center Creed Humphrey and right guard Trey Smith, forming a trio that would become the foundation for Kansas City as it won AFC titles in three of the next four seasons.

In his final season with the Chiefs, Thuney shored up left tackle during a postseason run, starting on the blind side of Mahomes on the way to a third consecutive Super Bowl appearance. The strategy may have come apart against the Philadelphia Eagles, but Thuney still proved to be one of the biggest reasons for unprecedented dominance in Kansas City’s recent history.

Worst: LB Anthony Hitchens — Class of 2018​

With the excitement building around Mahomes taking over as the starting quarterback for the 2018 season, Veach was aggressive in free agency. He signed wide receiver Sammy Watkins to a multi-year contract and made an underrated addition with running back Damien Williams.

On the defensive side, Veach looked for a leader to come into a locker room with established veterans like edge rusher Justin Houston and safety Eric Berry. He signed former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Anthony Hitchens to a five-year contract to be the next long-time middle linebacker in Kansas City. This came on the heels of all-time great linebacker Derrick Johnson’s final year with the team.

Hitchens started every game he was available for the next four seasons and was a key member of the 2019 Super Bowl championship run. However, it was clear Hitchens was not making the impact needed from the team’s top linebacker. The front office drafted linebacker Nick Bolton in 2021, and the difference in skills became clear that season. Hitchens was released following the disappointing season and never played another snap in the NFL.

Who are the best and worst free-agent signings in modern Chiefs history? Are there older examples that come to mind? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...who-are-best-worst-chiefs-free-agent-signings

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs 2026 offseason: Rank the positions of need before free agency

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - SEPTEMBER 28: George Karlaftis #56 of the Kansas City Chiefs and Chris Jones #95 of the Kansas City Chiefs share a moment on the sideline during an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The offseason is underway, and the Kansas City Chiefs have multiple positions of need to address this offseason. Let’s rank them, considering the roster and performance during the 2025 season.

1. Defensive Line​

The Chiefs’ defensive line struggled during the 2025 season, and heading into the offseason, the position is depleted. The team needs a combination of capable pass rushers and big bodies to stuff the run.

With a premier pick in the NFL Draft and a loaded defensive line class, Kansas City has a chance to pick one of the top defensive ends or tackles, but with multiple top-100 picks, the organization could double up and add multiple players to the defensive line.

Defensive tackle Chris Jones and defensive end George Karlafitis need help up front, and the draft will be a great spot for the Chiefs to replenish talent in the trenches.

2. Running Back​

The Chiefs’ running back room has been lackluster for the last two seasons, but this offseason, general manager Brett Veach will have a chance to take a swing in an interesting free agent class, as well as add talent through the draft.

With only Brashard Smith on the roster, Kansas City should be looking to add multiple players before the rookie minicamp begins in early May.

The most likely outcome is the Chiefs signing an established veteran player, then drafting a running back as high as Day 2 in the draft. This will ensure Kansas City has a known commodity while also looking to the future.

3. Tight End​

Regardless of legendary tight end Travis Kelce’s decision on whether he will come back for another season or retire, the Chiefs need to add talent to the position.

Veteran Noah Gray had a down season, and Jared Wiley has not panned out based on what the team imagined using the 131st overall pick in the 2024 draft.

While this position is a need for Kansas City, this season’s free agent class is not that deep, with Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts projected to be the highest-paid player, according to Spotrac, followed by Kelce in second. The draft could be where the Chiefs could add talent for the future of tight ends with quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

4. Linebacker​

A sneaky choice for this list is linebacker. There is a real possibility that Kansas City could be without either Leo Chenal, a pending free agent, or Drue Tranquill, a potential cap casualty, in 2026. Each player has been a key contributor to the Chiefs’ defense the last few seasons by joining Nick Bolton in a formidable trio on the second level of defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s scheme.

If the trio is broken up, the most likely scenario is a team-friendly deal for Chenal while Tranquill walks. This would open up the possibility for the Chiefs to swing on a star prospect like Arvelle Reese in the first round, or find a potential Day 2 star like former Missouri Tiger Josiah Trotter.

5. Wide Receiver​

The Chiefs’ receiving room, on paper, looks fine — but the offense could use an extra body capable of producing mid-tier, no.1 receiver numbers, or being a high-level no. 2 receiver.

In the draft, the Chiefs could have a chance to take Carnell Tate from Ohio State or Jordyn Tyson from Arizona State, the top two wideouts in the draft by consensus. If the team decides to prioritize defense, there’s a path to take in free agency.

Romeo Doubs, Jauan Jennings and Alec Pierce could be names worth monitoring once free agency begins and would all be welcome additions to the Chiefs roster.

6. Safety​

Veteran Bryan Cook is a pending free agent, which leaves Kansas City’s current safety room razor-thin. Jaden Hicks and Chammari Conner are both in line to take over for Cook if he leaves, but both players have had up-and-down careers to this point.

If the Chiefs believe in the value of the position, the team could take former Ohio State standout Caleb Downs in the first round, if he is available. If not, Safety could be a position Kansas City has holes in coming into 2026.

7. IOL reserves​

The Chiefs’ lack of quality depth along the interior offensive line has hurt them in recent seasons. The team should use the back end of the draft and the lower tier of free agency to add quality depth in the trenches and make sure that they have the deepest unit possible.

Last: Backup QB​

Kansas City’s main focus in 2026 should be bringing back Mahomes when he is healthy and continuing to build the roster around him for years to come. Spending superfluous resources on a high-end backup would be short-sighted in the long run.

The team does not — and cannot — function the way it is designed to do so without his full presence, so there is no need to try to salvage early-season wins if he is not ready to go when the season begins.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...season-rank-positions-need-before-free-agency

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Former Chiefs WR Tyreek Hill one of four players Dolphins are releasing

Nov 5, 2023; Frankfurt, Germany; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) celebrates after a reception against the Kansas City Chiefs during an NFL International Series game at Deutsche Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

There has already been one reunion for the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense this season — hiring Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator — but another potential homecoming just became possible.

On Monday morning, news of the Miami Dolphins releasing impactful veterans began to trickle out, starting with defensive end Bradley Chubb, guard James Daniels and wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine.

Sources: Miami’s eight-time Pro-Bowl WR Tyreek Hill is being released. Hill turns 32 on March 1, is recovering from a dislocated knee and torn ACL, and now will be an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his NFL career.

His release will save the Dolphins $22.8 million… pic.twitter.com/xK1UGfsWyg

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 16, 2026

Then, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that wide receiver Tyreek Hill would be a fourth player cut by Miami. The move saves the Dolphins $22.8 million in cap space, and now Hill — formerly a member of the Chiefs from 2016-2021 — is an unrestricted free agent as he recovers from a dislocated knee and torn ACL.

Two weeks shy of 32 years old, Hill has boosted his resume since leaving Kansas City as a six-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro selection. In four seasons with the Dolphins, Hill added two more first-team All-Pro selections while also receiving MVP votes in those seasons for the first time in his career.

In 2023, Hill led the NFL in receiving yards (1,799) and touchdown catches (13) and finished second in the voting for Offensive Player of the Year. It was the only year Hill has ever topped the league in either category. The mark of 1,799 yards is his career high, and the second-highest was set the previous season in Miami (1,710 yards).

In 2024, the Dolphins’ offense turned ineffective, and Hill’s stats took a big hit despite playing all 17 games. He was unable to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards for the first time since 2019, a season in which he played only 12 games. Then, in 2025, Hill’s statistics had a similarly discouraging pace through three games before he suffered the severe leg injury against the New York Jets on “Monday Night Football” in Week 4.

Hill is currently recovering and spoke with People about his progress in an interview that was published last Thursday.

“I’m feeling good. I mean, I’m walking with no brace on right now,” he tells PEOPLE exclusively. “I’m in my second week of walking with no brace, so I’m proud of that. So I’m feeling good.”

Hill underwent surgery immediately after, which his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, confirmed went “very well according to his doctors.” He confirmed he’ll play next season, and shared the “realistic goal” is the start of the season.

Former Dolphins’ head coach Mike McDaniel — now offensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Chargers, for what it’s worth — started in that position the year Hill was traded to Miami. The offensive-minded coach clearly had a schematic flow at one point that married the run and pass beautifully, opening up incredible amounts of space for one of the league’s most feared playmakers in Hill.

After fueling Hill to two consecutive seasons topping 1,700 yards in 2022 and 2023, McDaniel’s magic seemed to crumble, and Hill’s did along with it. There is an argument to be made that Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was not playing well enough to execute the scheme, and his leadership became questionable this past season with remarks about teammates being late to players-only meetings.

The dysfunction turned into an overhaul in Miami this offseason, and now the Chiefs will be speculated as one of the most likely landing spots for Hill. According to the oddsmakers at Bovada, the Chiefs are the favorite (+300) to be Hill’s next team. The next-lowest odds belong to a three-way tie between the Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens and New England Patriots (+500).

Do you think the Chiefs should pursue Tyreek Hill? Why or why not? Get the discussion going in the comment section.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...elease-four-players-former-chiefs-tyreek-hill

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Why the Chiefs’ reunion with Tyreek Hill is a longshot

KANSAS CITY, MO - OCTOBER 13: Tyreek Hill #10 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images

On Monday, we learned that former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill is officially a free agent after being released by the Miami Dolphins.

Predictably, the immediate take on social media called for Hill to return to Kansas City, where he played from 2016 to 2021. The team’s fifth-round selection from the 2016 NFL Draft ranks fifth in team history with 6,630 receiving yards and fourth all-time in all-purpose touchdowns with 67.

"Do we have time to run wasp?"

Patrick Mahomes knew it would work to give the Chiefs a big gain in the clutch (Super Bowl LIV)@insidethenfl's Top 60 SB Mic'd Up Moments on X pic.twitter.com/KtYwHApZxD

— NFL (@NFL) February 6, 2026

Hill’s 44-yard reception from quarterback Patrick Mahomes in Super Bowl LIV spurred a Chiefs’ comeback and is one of the signature plays in franchise history. Returning Kansas City offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is also known to have a strong relationship with Hill.

Still, a second stint in Kansas City is probably unlikely for the wideout.

The biggest question surrounding Hill is his health. In Week 4, Hill suffered a devastating knee injury against the New York Jets. The gruesome diagnosis was a dislocated knee with multiple torn ligaments, including his ACL.

During Super Bowl week, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that it is unknown when — or if — the speedster would be available in 2026. With so much of Hill’s value tied to otherworldly speed, he may never recover in a way that puts him back in a huddle.

Hill addressed the move on Monday via his Twitch feed. He confirmed that he knew the release was coming while revealing he still needs an additional surgery to repair his LCL.

Tyreek Hill cont –

He said on his stream (below) that he needs 1 more surgery for the LCL.
It’s pretty rare that they would leave the LCL alone initially if torn, as it would remain too unstable following the ACLR.

My guesses here:
•they didn’t think LCL needed to be repaired… https://t.co/F76d2gKlX0

— Jeff Mueller, PT, DPT (@jmthrivept) February 16, 2026

There are also considerations other than health.

Hill entered the league with Kansas City under the cloud of a domestic violence conviction, and the Chiefs weathered the storm as he faced child abuse allegations in 2019. Multiple controversial incidents followed after he was traded to the Dolphins in 2022, although Hill has never received a league suspension.

The Chiefs and Dolphins repeatedly stood by Hill while he was the most dangerous weapon in football. A team might be less willing to put the work on its public relations department for a rehabbing player. If Hill’s career continues, he may be unlikely to join a team until fully cleared to practice.

Continuing his career may not be as simple as signing an incentives-laden contract.

The wide receiver position sees many careers end earlier than expected because it is difficult for starting players to shift to backup roles.

Backup wide receivers are generally expected to take on significant special teams snaps. If a wideout cannot be one of the top three options in the passing game, it is hard to justify the roster space without contributions on the third unit.

Would a reduced role for Tyreek Hill likely be a better option on a given play than most teams’ fourth or fifth wide receiver? Yes, but that also would have been true last season for even the 33-year-old version of former star wideout Odell Beckham Jr. — who never caught on with a team in 2025. It also would have been the case for former New Orleans Saints pass catcher Michael Thomas, who never signed with a team in 2024 after reaching free agency.

On the players’ side, the realities of late-career money may be hard to swallow. Hill has made over $25 million for four consecutive seasons. Even if he hit every hypothetical incentive a new team offered him, the compensation would be far below what he is accustomed to making.

Hill will turn 32 next month. His most likely path forward will be to continue his rehab and sign with a contender later in the season, in hopes of reestablishing his value ahead of 2027’s free agency to chase one more payday. Whether that comes in Kansas City will probably depend on whether the Chiefs’ 2026 is going better than the last campaign and their needs at the position.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...94421/why-chiefs-reunion-tyreek-hill-longshot