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[Kansas City Chiefs]

2026 Shrine Bowl: 5 intriguing offensive linemen for Chiefs draft

The 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl is set to kick off Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. Arrowhead time, broadcast on NFL Network. Both the East and West squads have been busy practicing this past week in preparation, and showcased their abilities in front of scouts and the media.

The Kansas City Chiefs will need offensive line depth in the later rounds of the draft, and the Shrine Bowl serves as a good spot to identify talent.

The Arrowhead Pride staff had boots on the ground in Frisco, Texas, last week, and a few of the offensive linemen stood out.

1. Brian Parker, Duke​

Parker played at both right and left tackle during his time at Duke, but after talking with him, he revealed that he would be playing center exclusively at the Shrine Bowl.

Duke OL Brian Parker II made every career start at RT/LT but will be taking snaps at center exclusively for the duration of the Shrine Bowl.

"If you want to draft me at tackle, draft me at tackle, or bump me inside to center or guard, this is what I am here to show this week."

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) January 23, 2026

Measuring 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 306 pounds, Parker is slightly undersized to play along the offensive interior. Still, his movement abilities can be maximized by a team that utilizes a zone blocking scheme as well as blocking in space.

The Chiefs do not need a starter at any spot along the interior offensive line, but Parker has proven to be a versatile player and quick learner, and would have good value as a backup when first entering the league.

This was a good double team rep from Brian Parker and Joe Cooper. I like how Parker was able to take over the block and get his head around to end the play.

The DT Dontay Corleone is no slouch either. pic.twitter.com/VoTMGH9BPv

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) January 26, 2026

For not taking snaps at center since high school, Parker appeared to be gaining comfort, and having positional versatility will boost his draft stock.

2. Aamil Wagner, Notre Dame​

One of the standouts from the early practice sessions was Notre Dame tackle Aamil Wagner. A two-year starter in college, Wagner wasted no time showing off his game.

Great recovery from Amail Wagner. Gives up his chest a little bit early, but fights to reset and re anchor. pic.twitter.com/mU30jQevSc

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) January 23, 2026

Standing 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 306 pounds with longer than 34-inch arms, Wagner is a little bit on the lighter side for an offensive lineman, but he makes up for it with solid athletic ability and long arms.

Wagner projects to be a swing tackle early on in his career, and through the course of practice, he seamlessly transitioned from left to right tackle.

Solid snap from Amail Wagner. pic.twitter.com/uYhcu5GsWf

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) January 23, 2026

A smooth mover, Wagner fires out of his stance comfortably, locks on, and fights to anchor himself to finish the play. He will need to work on his striking ability, but his build and movement skills should have the Chiefs interested in pursuing him later on in the draft.

3. Caden Barnett, Wyoming​

One of the risers of the week has been the Wyoming standout. Barnett played tackle during his time at Wyoming, but will look to slide to the interior in the NFL. This week at Shrine Bowl practices, he lined up primarily at right guard.

Caden Barnett with the good lateral quickness and strong hands to stop the pass rush. pic.twitter.com/uHuQN7L6VR

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) January 26, 2026

A heavy-handed brawler, Barnett has advanced hand-fighting skills, and with a strong base, he was able to anchor himself down and win pass protection snaps.

Barnett had a fist fight in a phone booth style, and he was not shy when I asked him about the mentality an offensive lineman has to have in the NFL.

I asked Wyoming OL Caden Barnett what his favorite part of playing OL is.

"The physicality, I love moving a grown man against his will from point A to point B. I'm a mauler."

His favorite play is power, he likes "running through someones face".

Football guys football guy

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) January 23, 2026

At just a hair under 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 316 pounds with 32-inch arms, Barnett is a hair undersized and will likely be a reserve early on in his career. However, if he can continue to string together more solid performances, he will have a chance to be drafted and develop into an interior swing player. The Chiefs need depth along the interior, so he will be a player to keep an eye on for Day 3 of the draft.

4. James Neal III, Iowa State​

Starting his college career at Independence Community College in Kansas, Neal eventually found his way to Iowa State, where he lined up all over the line of scrimmage during his college career. As a Senior, he started every game at left tackle, and this is where he found himself at for Shrine Bowl practices.

Good pass pro rep from James Neal III. Plays the spin well and runs his man up the arc. pic.twitter.com/DSEpZvVcH5

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) January 26, 2026

Neal is a good athlete, along with a stature of 6 feet 4 inches tall and 322 pounds with nearly 34” long arms; he profiles to play tackle or guard in the NFL.

He carries his weight well, and quick feet and a strong core help him to win pass-blocking snaps, while good bend and power transfer help him to root out defenders in the run game.

Neal comes from a downhill rushing offense at Iowa State, and he shared with me what his favorite play to run in college was.

James Neal III, OT from Iowa State, said his favorite play to run in college was a "duo scheme with a tackle pull". Said he "really liked to pull as a tackle".

He mentioned the best opposing player he faced was former KU edge and current Chicago Bear Austin Booker.

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) January 23, 2026

Given his athletic profile, any play where Neal could pull to get into space would be a benefit for him. Athletic, moldable talent like Neal is what the Chiefs will be seeking in the late rounds of the draft and undrafted free agency.

5. Faialili Fa’amoe, Wake Forest​

The All-ACC performer has looked solid in practice this week and is making a case to be drafted. At 6 feet 4 inches tall and 311 pounds with 33.68” arms, Fa’amoe projects more as a guard in the NFL, but his performance against other top competition at the Shrine Bowl should leave the door open for him to play right tackle at the next level.

Fa’alili Fa’amoe from Wake Forest had some nice snaps in pass protection. Good footwork solid base and core. Nasty finish. pic.twitter.com/z60RFQjsQm

— Caleb James (@CJScoobs) January 26, 2026

Fa’amoe has been solid in pass protection and shown a nasty streak as well. His fundamentals in pass protection have showcased an agile and quick tackle, with a good understanding of momentum and the angles needed to take away the defender’s ability to bend the arc.

His footwork and core are good for a tackle, but his hands are good as well. This combination should help him to climb up draft boards.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-shrine-bowl-5-offensive-linemen-chiefs-draft

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Eric Bieniemy has a ‘standard of excellence’ he expects Chiefs to meet

Days after officially returning as the offensive coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs, Eric Bieniemy spoke with the Kansas City media on Wednesday. Bieniemy spent a decade on Kansas City’s staff from 2013 to 2022 and was the offensive coordinator for his last five seasons with the Chiefs.

Bieniemy left the team following the Chiefs’ victory in Super Bowl LVII. He spent the 2023 season as the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders before leading UCLA’s offense in 2024. In 2025, he was the running backs coach for the Chicago Bears. Per NFL Next Gen Stats, the Bears ranked fourth in the league this season with 0.04 expected points added (EPA) per rush play.

Currently, Bieniemy is working through how the concepts he has learned in three years away from Kansas City can help the Chiefs and head coach Andy Reid.

“I’ve had an opportunity to learn a few things,” he remarked. “I’ve obviously opened my mind to how to view things from a different point of view. It’s great, but on top of that, we’ve got to make sure we’re getting down to what’s best for us when it’s all said and done with.”

“Anybody can present an idea,” Bieniemy acknowledged. “More importantly, we need to make sure, first and foremost, that we’re taking a look at anything we need to continue to improve on or continue working with and making sure we’re getting all the answers first with that and then just figure out where we need to go from there.”

Stepping out of Reid’s shadow allowed Bieniemy to develop as a communicator.

“I think it’s helped me in a number of ways,” said the coach. “When you’re doing it on your own, you’ve got to find creative ways to implement a system. You learn a lot about yourself — the good, the bad, and the ugly. All ideas are not bad ideas; we just need to be receptive to them. Just the dynamic of working with people, learning how to communicate and articulate your plan, and getting them to buy in — I think all that helps.”

“I’ve learned a lot over the years,” Bieniemy pointed out. “I’ve learned a lot about myself. I’m excited just to get started. Obviously, today is Day 1. I want to make sure on Day 2, 3, 4 and 5 we hit the ground running with all this excitement and all this energy that’s being created.”

Because he is just coming off a postseason run with the Bears, Bieniemy admits he is still in the early stages of planning what can be done to improve the Chiefs, who struggled offensively down the stretch of a disappointing 6-11 season. While away, however, he continued to look at Kansas City for ideas on new plays of his own.

“I really haven’t had an opportunity to dig in and really study it like I want to,” he offered. “Every now and then, I would pick up a few ideas or a few plays here and there. But I really haven’t had a chance to dig in like I want to. I’m going to spend this time during this period just to figure out the good, the bad, the ugly, and the indifferent.”

One area Bieniemy should make an immediate impact on is resurrecting the Chiefs’ lethargic run game. He will work with Reid — and offensive line coach Andy Heck — on solutions to make that portion of the offense more exciting.

“With Coach Reid,” he predicted, “we’re going to figure out things that we need to do moving forward as far as making sure we get the right people in the building. When it’s all said and done with, we’re going to make sure we can do the things that we do best. We have one of the better O-line coaches in the industry in Coach Heck. He does an outstanding job with those guys up front.”

“Have I been exposed to a number of run schemes? Yes,” Bieniemy reflected aloud. “At the end of the day, we’ve got to make sure that we’re doing what’s best for us moving forward. I think that’s just a general overall plan.”

Since Bieniemy left, the Chiefs have (fairly or not) been perceived to lack accountability on offense both for coaches and players. Bieniemy expects all individuals — players and assistants — to be coachable.

“That’s why we get paid,” he declared. “We’re coaches. It’s our job to come up with answers. We’ve got to make sure we can give solutions to the answers and resolve it. We’ve got a great coaching staff. We’ve got great people. I feel like I’m back in with family. We’re all very familiar with each other, so we’ll sit down and figure everything out together.”

As for players, Bieniemy is excited to start fresh with new ideas, but the vocal, hard-nosed coach fans saw for a decade remains.

“There are some things about me that have changed,” Bieniemy stated, “but more than anything, EB is EB. We will still be disciplined in detail in everything in how we handle our business. There’s a standard of performance. There’s a standard of excellence that will be expected. But on top of that, there’s been a great deal of wealth that I’ve learned through the good and the bad. The thing that I appreciate is it’s just helped me to grow into this role and have this opportunity to be in this situation again.”

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...27/eric-bieniemy-standard-excellence-expected

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs’ Creed Humphrey nominated for NFL Protector of the Year award

In its inaugural season, the Protector of the Year award will be given to the best NFL offensive lineman from the 2025 campaign, symbolizing “protection, durability, and the unsung heroics of the players who shield their teammates and drive their teams forward.”

That description fits Kansas City Chiefs center Creed Humphrey perfectly, so it’s no surprise that he is one of 6 nominees for the award. Along with Humphrey, here are the five others according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.

• Left tackle Garett Bolles, Denver Broncos
• Center Aaron Brewer, Miami Dolphins
• Right guard Quinn Meinerz, Broncos
• Left guard Joe Thuney, Chicago Bears
• Right tackle Penei Sewell, Detroit Lions

This past season, Humphrey was honored as a first-team All-Pro by the Associated Press for the second consecutive year. He started all 17 regular-season games for the fifth season in a row, or all five seasons he has been in the NFL.

He will compete with the four other starters on the All-Pro first team and the center on the All-Pro second team. The award winner will likely be announced during the NFL Honors ceremony held on the Thursday before Super Bowl LX.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...d-humphrey-nominated-nfl-protector-year-award

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

REPORT: Chiefs are hiring two assistant coaches from college ranks

KANSAS CITY, MO - AUGUST 22: Kansas City Chiefs helmets on the side lines prior to the game against the Chicago Bears on August 22nd, 2025 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri (Photo by William Purnell/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

On Thursday morning, two separate reports provided more information on the new coaching staff being assembled by the Kansas City Chiefs.

• According to senior reporter Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, the Chiefs will be hiring Villanova wide receivers coach Nate Pagan to be a quality control coach.
• ESPN’s Pete Thamel published a report saying Kansas City is expected to hire Coastal Carolina safeties coach C.J. Cox as a quality control coach.

Pagan is coming off his seventh season as the wide receivers coach for the Villanova Wildcats after two years as an offensive assistant at the school. One of the most successful players he coached in his time was wide receiver Jaaron Hayek, who earned a spot on the Chiefs’ 90-man offseason roster after standing out at rookie minicamp in 2024.

Cox is a well-known defensive backs coach collegiately; he has led the cornerbacks or safeties for a college football program every year since 2017. He has participated in the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship three times, including twice with the Chiefs during the 2022 and 2023 offseasons.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...t-chiefs-hiring-two-assistant-coaches-college

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs request to interview familiar face for running backs coach

CHICAGO, IL - AUGUST 25: Kansas City Chiefs running backs coach Deland McCullough looks on wearing his Bose headset during game action in a preseason NFL game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Chicago Bears on August 25, 2018 at Soldier Field in Chicago IL. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

As the Kansas City Chiefs continue to change the coaching staff this offseason, Deland McCullough has emerged as a name to monitor for the running backs coach position. McCullough is a familiar figure in Kansas City, having held the role from 2018 through the 2020 season, a span that included a Super Bowl LIV championship and consecutive AFC titles.

During his initial tenure with the Chiefs, McCullough coached a deep and rotating backfield that featured Kareem Hunt, Damien Williams, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Jerick McKinnon and Darrel Williams. His units were consistently trusted in pass protection and situational football, aligning closely with Andy Reid’s offensive priorities during that stretch.

After the 2020 season, McCullough returned to the college ranks. He spent time at Indiana before joining Notre Dame as running backs coach and associate head coach, where he helped oversee a productive ground attack. While in South Bend, McCullough coached Jeremiyah Love, a highly regarded running back who developed into one of the nation’s most explosive offensive players. McCullough played a significant role in Love’s recruitment and was closely involved in his development at Notre Dame.

Love has since become a common fixture in early mock drafts, with draft analyst Mel Kiper projecting him to Kansas City at No. 9 overall. There is no indication the Chiefs’ interest in McCullough would be tied to any specific draft plan, and league sources consistently caution against linking coaching hires to future draft outcomes. Still, the overlap is worth noting given McCullough’s familiarity with both the Chiefs’ system and a prospect who may be on their draft board.

Most recently, McCullough returned to the NFL as the Las Vegas Raiders’ running backs coach, reestablishing his presence at the professional level. As the Chiefs weigh experience, continuity and player development, McCullough’s résumé provides a logical reference point — even if some connections ultimately prove coincidental.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...t-interview-familiar-face-running-backs-coach

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs two-round mock draft by The Athletic adds to both sides of ball

AUSTIN, TX - NOVEMBER 01: Tight end Eli Stowers #9 of the Vanderbilt Commodores catches a pass while being defended by defensive back Derek Williams Jr. #2 of the Texas Longhorns during the SEC college football between Texas Longhorns and Vanderbilt Commodores on November 1, 2025, at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, TX. (Photo by David Buono/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The college all-star showcases are wrapping up with the Senior Bowl this weekend, and the 2026 NFL Draft class is rounding into shape.

The NFL Scouting Combine and free agency are still to come, but that hasn’t stopped football writers from cooking up mock drafts. On Thursday, The Athletic authored a two-round mock draft, giving Chiefs fans a preview of the second-round possibilities in addition to those at ninth overall.

9. Kansas City Chiefs: Rueben Bain Jr., edge, Miami

Miami led the nation in sacks, and Bain was an offense-wrecking machine. He frequently drew double teams, yet still finished with 9.5 sacks and 83 total pressures, according to PFF. Lined up alongside Chris Jones, Bain immediately would revitalize the Chiefs’ slumping defense.

40. Kansas City Chiefs: Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt

My analysis​

It’s hard to argue with the sudden boost Bain would provide the Chiefs’ defense, especially the pass rush. Kansas City has stocked the defensive end position with sound, strong players who excel with discipline and execution more than talent to pressure the quarterback.

Bain has the individual tools to be a one-man wrecking crew, similar to Chris Jones. We’ve seen how unblockable Jones can be as the only real threat, so imagine two players needing prioritized attention on the Chiefs’ front.

With arguably the team’s biggest need addressed with a high-end pick, Kansas City can be flexible with the 40th pick. Here, the organization is matched with the second tight end off the board. Stowers won the Mackey Award in 2025 for college football’s best tight end and earned first-team All-SEC honors.

Stowers was originally a quarterback recruit out of Denton, Texas, and enrolled at Texas A&M as the 106th-ranked player nationally by 247sports. After two seasons as a reserve quarterback, Stowers transferred to New Mexico State and successfully transitioned to tight end. He earned honorable mention All-Conference USA in 2023, then moved on to become one of the nation’s best tight ends at Vanderbilt for two more seasons.

Eli Stowers
6’4” | 235 lbs | TE | Vanderbilt

Among qualified, draft-eligible TEs in 2025:

769 yards (1st)
62 receptions (2nd)
2.55 YPRR (2nd)
3.08 YPRR vs zone (2nd)

Efficiency + volume from a TE with this little buzz is rare. pic.twitter.com/TpgxNebQY0

— Jonny Tooma (@FantasyPicasso) January 26, 2026

Over the last two seasons, Stowers has combined for 1,407 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. The selection would likely be the franchise’s best attempt to move past the potential retirement of tight end Travis Kelce. However, if Kelce were to be teamed up with Stowers, it could completely change the dynamic of the Chiefs’ offense.

Is Stowers a worthwhile pick at 40th overall? Who else would you consider for the Chiefs with such a high pick in the second round? Let us know in the comments.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...-mock-draft-the-athletic-adds-offense-defense

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

5 players to watch at the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl

COLUMBIA, MO - OCTOBER 11: Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor (74) blocks Missouri Tigers defensive end Zion Young (9) in the first quarter of an SEC football game between the Alabama Crimson Tide and Missouri Tigers on October 11, 2025 at Memorial Stadium in Columbia, MO. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The 2026 Panini Senior Bowl is set to take place on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. Arrowhead time, and will be broadcast on the NFL Network.

The game will provide draft prospects a chance to give scouts and coaches one last padded look before the unofficial start to draft season at the NFL Scouting Combine. This week has been full of risers and fallers, and some players have made a tremendous impact in a short period of time.

Here are five players to watch in the game:

1. DE Zion Young, Missouri​

Young had a standout season for the Tigers in 2025, and this week, he has raised his draft stock with a dominating effort at the Senior Bowl practices.

The power that Missouri’s Zion Young has shown at the Senior Bowl is terrifying. You don’t want to see him lining up across from you in a four-point stance with those bent elbows. pic.twitter.com/qCksPcbCZh

— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) January 29, 2026

Young measured at 6 feet 5 inches tall and 262 pounds with 33.48” long arms. The prototypical height and weight for an NFL defensive end, Young has shown off a terrifying combination of power and flexibility that has helped him dominate practices. Young has been projected to go in the third round of the NFL Draft, but with a great performance this week, his stock has been rapidly rising.

The Chiefs selecting Young at nine would be a stretch, but he could be in play with the 40th pick as an early Day 2 selection.

2. DT Lee Hunter, Texas Tech​

Hunter’s Texas Tech teammate David Bailey has been a darling of draft season, but Hunter has put on a show this week during practices, propelling himself into the conversation of the top-tier defensive tackles in this class.

TTU DT Lee Hunter (one of the 1st rounders here in Mobile) still going 100mph on Thursday. Tells you what you need to know about the young man! Just loves ball. pic.twitter.com/YAW6IIXbLm

— Todd McShay (@McShay13) January 29, 2026

Hunter is a load at 6 feet 3 inches tall and 320 pounds, and has all the makings of a cornerstone defensive tackle. He is stout enough to play the 1-technique or nose tackle position, but also has the quickness and burst off the ball to line up and rush the passer as a 3-technique.

Hunter could be working his way into the middle of the first round. If Kansas City decides to trade down from the ninth spot, Hunter could provide great value as a middle first-round selection.

3. Guard Beau Stephens, Iowa​

A local prospect from Blue Springs High School — Go Cats — Stephens has quietly been one of the best players this week at Senior Bowl practices.

Just draft hogs out of Iowa, it usually works out.

Beau Stephens v Lee Hunter. pic.twitter.com/SmzVG3D3eX

— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) January 29, 2026

At Iowa, Stephens was a standout All-Conference linemen, and this week he has put up solid performances against some of the best defensive line talent in college football. Stephens can play both guard positions, and center might not be out of the question for him in the NFL as well.

Stephens can start right away for multiple teams, but if the Chiefs were to take him early on Day 3, he could provide quality depth while honing his skills behind one of the best interiors in football.

4. DT Tim Keenan, Alabama​

Keenan isn’t the flashiest player in the world, but he can become a long-term stalwart as a run stuffer on any team’s defensive line.

Tim Keenan is able to absord the double and drive the OL back while Derrick Moore easily takes on the TE. American DL has been dominating the LOS in the run game pic.twitter.com/33ZKmXqr7D

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) January 27, 2026

Keenan is a power player, and with great base strength, he uses his 6-foot-1, 330-pound frame to anchor the interior.

Keen will likely fall to the third day of the draft, but this could be a good area for the Chiefs to pick up a quality run stuffer with good potential to develop as a player.

5. LB Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech​

One of the top defensive players in college football, Rodriguez took home a lot of hardware for his performance during the 2025 season, and he has been backing it up this week at the Senior Bowl practices.

Jacob Rodriguez's coverage ability has been impressive pic.twitter.com/KpdjLlD4Iy

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) January 29, 2026

Rodriguez played middle linebacker at Texas Tech, but his coverage ability could land him as a weak-side linebacker in the NFL, and given his play style, he would be a great fit for the Chiefs.

Linebacker is not an overwhelming need for Kansas City, but Rodriguez could help solidify a solid group and give the Chiefs tremendous insurance if Nick Bolton were to be injured. Linebacker is a key position in defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s unit, and Rodriguez could make an immediate impact.

Others to watch​

Defensive linemen​

EDGE LT Overton, Alabama

EDGE TJ Parker, Clemson

DT Caleb Banks, Florida

EDGE Tyreak Sapp, Florida

DT Darrell Jackson, Florida State

EDGE Derrick Moore, Michigan

DT Chris McClellan, Mizzou

Offensive linemen​

OT Gennings Dunker, Iowa

Markel Bell, Miami

Off-Ball Defenders​

CB Daylen Everette, Georgia

S Zakee Wheatley, Penn State

LB Nnami Obiazor, TCU

Skill-position players​

TE Justin Joly, North Carolina State

WR Malachi Fields, Notre Dame

TE Sam Roush, Stanford

WR Ja’Kobi Lane, USC

RB J’Mari Taylor, Virginia

TE John Michael Gyllenborg, Wyoming

---

Who will you have your eye on as you watch the Senior Bowl? Let us know in the comments.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...93351/5-players-watch-2026-panini-senior-bowl

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 1/31: Chiefs have two top-10 defensive free agents

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 09: Bryan Cook #6 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates an interception with Jaylen Watson #35 in the second quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles during Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome on February 09, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The latest​

2026 NFL Free Agency: 10 defensive free agents who deserve to get paid | Pro Football Focus

S Bryan Cook
Projected AAV: $14.2 million

Although the Chiefs underperformed this past season, Cook made massive strides, earning a career-best 83.5 PFF overall grade, the fifth-highest mark among qualifying safeties. The 26-year-old stood as the only safety to earn above an 80.0-plus PFF grade in both run defense (80.1) and coverage (83.2). He also ranked above the 90th percentile in missed tackle rate among safeties.

While Cook’s grading profile in previous seasons doesn’t jump off the page, he brings experience as a starter in a complex defensive scheme. His talent is undeniable, and at just over $14 million annually, Cook would rank just inside the 12 highest-paid safeties.

CB Jaylen Watson
Projected AAV: $12.5 million

Joining teammate Bryan Cook on this list, Watson is another standout member of the Chiefs’ secondary in line for a lucrative payday. Watson has been one of the most consistent performers in Steve Spagnuolo’s scheme, earning a 68.0-plus PFF overall grade in each of the past three seasons. Over that span, he notched a 74.9 PFF coverage grade at outside cornerback, placing him in the 85th percentile.

Watson brings high-percentile length at cornerback to make him an enticing option this free agency cycle. At $12.5 million annually, Watson’s projected value would be in line with Brandon Stephens’ three-year, $36 million deal last offseason with the Jets.

NFL carousel leaves Matt Nagy staring down an ugly coaching reality | Sports Illustrated

Three other teams were “in” on Nagy with varied interest, from rumored ties to official interviews, but nothing has panned out. The Baltimore Ravens replaced John Harbaugh with Jesse Minter. The Cardinals were reportedly going to call Nagy, but nothing official has been announced even as Arizona has zeroed in on the likes of L.A. Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur or Seattle Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak.

The Las Vegas Raiders are the other team still looking for their head coach, and they’ve actually interviewed Nagy. That’s his best bet at this point, but there’s typically a decent amount of smoke at this point in a hiring process that points toward an obvious candidate. Nagy has none of that working for him this late in the hiring cycle. Things can change, but any sort of head coaching offer feels like a long shot at this stage.

The Chiefs need to re-sign Tyquan Thornton (and actually use him) | Arrowhead Addict

Yards per route in 2025

Rashee Rice – 2.16
Tyquan Thornton 1.7
Hollywood Brown – 1.49
Xavier Worthy – 1.26
Juju Smith-Schuster – .89

For some context, other wideouts who averaged close to 1.7 yards per route run last season include Emeka Egbuka, Garrett Wilson, Romeo Doubs, and Khalil Shakir. Meanwhile, other wideouts who played regularly and averaged around Xavier Worthy’s 1.26 YPRR include Keon Coleman, Josh Palmer, Darius Slayton, and Pat Bryant. Ironically, Skyy Moore also averaged 1.26 YPRR on limited offensive snaps with the 49ers last season.

On a team where they struggled to get wide receiver production outside of Rashee Rice and struggled to create big plays down the field, it is inexcusable that they kept Thornton on the sideline while giving Kansas City’s two least efficient wideouts (Worthy and Smith-Schuster) each over 600 offensive snaps. It makes zero sense. Just look at these yards per reception numbers.

Around the NFL​

NFL salary cap to crest $300 million in 2026 | USA Today

The NFL informed its clubs on Jan. 30 that the league’s salary cap is expected to increase to between $301.2 million and $305.7 million per team in 2026, according to a person with knowledge of the announcement. The person spoke to USA TODAY on the condition of anonymity because the numbers were not yet official.

If finalized, the increase would be up to $26.5 million higher than the $279.2 million teams could work with under the 2025 cap.

Sources: Seahawks will go up for sale after Super Bowl LX | ESPN

Paul Allen agreed to buy the Seahawks from Ken Behring in 1996, with the deal becoming official in 1997. The deal saved the team from a potential relocation to Southern California. If sold again, the franchise could set a record for an NFL team sale price coming off a Super Bowl appearance and possibly a championship.

The Seahawks have made the playoffs in seven of the past 10 years. They are based at legendary Lumen Field, which opposing players have said is one of the toughest stadiums to play at and which is receiving nearly $20 million in upgrades ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The franchise also has one of the NFL’s best-regarded general manager-head coach combinations in John Schneider and Mike Macdonald.

Sports teams valuations have been soaring in recent years. Sportico values the Seahawks at $6.59 billion, the 14th highest in the NFL, according to its ranking. The most recent NFL team to sell was the Washington Commanders, which a group led by Josh Harris purchased in 2023 for a record $6.05 billion. The NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers sold a majority stake in the team at a $10 billion valuation in June.

One team executive told ESPN that the Seahawks could fetch $7 billion to $8 billion.

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

Jeremiyah Love to the Chiefs is nothing more than a pipe dream

Let’s say the Chiefs go the “cheap” route and sign Allgeier or Dowdle. That would likely account for roughly $5 million against the cap in the 2026 season. Doubling down on the position with Love would also come with a hefty price: Kelvin Banks Jr., the ninth-overall selection last year, signed a four-year deal worth $28 million. His first year had a cap hit of $5 million.

Are the Chiefs suddenly spending eight figures and utilizing a top-10 overall selection to fix the running back position? Some may believe that’s the best use of resources. Reasonable minds can disagree. I certainly don’t view it that way. This team has too many holes at too many valuable positions to spend that much precious capital on the backfield.

Social media to make you think​

NFL salary cap over the years:

2013: $123M
2014: $133M
2015: $143.28M
2016: $155.27M
2017: $167M
2018: $177.2M
2019: $188.2M
2020: $198.2M
2021: $182.5M
2022: $208.2M
2023: $224.8M
2024: $255.4M
2025: $279.2M
2026: $301.2M-$305.7M (projected)

Business is booming. https://t.co/lNPmrwBQq0

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 30, 2026

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Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans.../1-31-chiefs-two-top-10-defensive-free-agents

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Jeremiyah Love to the Chiefs is nothing more than a pipe dream

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 15: Jeremiyah Love #4 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Acrisure Stadium on November 15, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images

How could you not dream about the idea of Jeremiyah Love in the Kansas City Chiefs‘ offense? Some of head coach Andy Reid’s best work has come with all-purpose backs like Brian Westbrook, Jamaal Charles and Kareem Hunt.

It’s fun. It’s exciting. It would be a return to fireworks on offense for the Chiefs.

If you haven’t watched Love’s highlights, you should find the time. He makes everything look easy. It’s almost as if he’s gliding on the football field. His stops and starts are immediate. He is capable of running through or around would-be tacklers. He has the vision to wiggle through tight spaces in short-yardage situations or near the goal line. He’s also a worthwhile receiver out of the backfield.

Pro Football Focus credits him with just one fumble in his entire collegiate career. If you were evaluating prospects in this draft without accounting for positional value, he might be the best football player of the bunch.

The fit in Kansas City is about more than just Love’s talent, though. An overhaul in the running back room feels necessary this offseason; the position especially needs more juice.

Isiah Pacheco appeared to be that back during his breakout campaign in 2023 when he accounted for five carries of 30 or more yards, but that was just an outlier. Chiefs running backs had six such carries in total between the 2020-2022 and 2024-2025 seasons.

Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry had seven carries of 30 or more yards last season; Love finished with 15 carries of 30 or more yards over the past two years at Notre Dame.

It’s hard to move the ball consistently in the NFL nowadays; burst and explosiveness are needed. Love will add that for whichever team selects him in the first round.

I just don’t see a scenario in which it would make sense for that team to be the Chiefs. Not with a top-10 pick. Not with the way the NFL’s offseason is structured.

This is when reality kicks in​

I understand anyone who prefers to stay in fantasyland. It’s late January, and we still have months before we reach this year’s NFL Draft. I just can’t help myself. I’m a pragmatist at heart.

General manager Brett Veach’s approach to the offseason has always been to enter the NFL Draft with a roster he would feel comfortable playing with on opening night. It’s a smart approach. It allows Veach to take the best player available, regardless of position, to some degree.

An example of this played out last offseason.

Veach knew he couldn’t go into the season without a significant addition at left tackle; he couldn’t assume that answer would present itself late in the first round. An investment was necessary in free agency, and Jaylon Moore was the answer. Moore’s presence meant the Chiefs had a clear plan at a premium position regardless of how the draft played out.

If Veach knew then what he knows now — that Josh Simmons would be available late in the first round — would he have signed Moore? Probably not. But he didn’t have that information at the time. He had to insulate himself from the possibility that a starting option wouldn’t be there when the Chiefs selected. They couldn’t enter the draft without an answer at such an important position. It was an expensive insurance policy to protect Patrick Mahomes.

A similar scenario could present itself this offseason, this time at the running back position.

Kansas City will have to decide the plan of attack for improving running back far before knowing if Love will be available or not with the ninth overall pick. That likely means attacking the position in free agency, which comes with a cost.

To sign any of the top six backs in free agency, the Chiefs would have to pay a significant premium for a position the team hasn’t valued at that rate in the past.

Chiefs running back spending in the Mahomes era, per Over The Cap:

• 2018 – $3.8 million (26th)
• 2019 – $6.7 million (15th)
• 2020 – $5 million (25th)
• 2021 – $5.4 million (25th)
• 2022 – $6.3 million (17th)
• 2023 – $6 million (19th)
• 2024 – $4.3 million (29th)
• 2025 – $4.9 million (31st)

Pro Football Focus has contract projections associated with each of their top 50 free agents heading into the offseason. Nine running backs fit into that criteria.

1. Breece Hall – 3 years, $37 million ($25 million guaranteed)
2. Travis Etienne – 3 years, $34.5 million ($22.5 million guaranteed)
3. Kenneth Walker – 3 years, $27 million ($20 million guaranteed)
4. Javonte Williams – 3 years, $23 million ($13.5 million guaranteed)
5. Tyler Allgeier – 2 years, $18 million ($5 million guaranteed)
6. Rico Dowdle – 2 years, $17 million ($11.5 million guaranteed)
7. Rachaad White – 2 years, $11 million ($8 million guaranteed)
8. J.K. Dobbins – 1 year, $5.5 million ($3.5 million guaranteed)
9. Najee Harris – 1 year, $1.3 million ($350,000 guaranteed)

Let’s say the Chiefs go the “cheap” route and sign Allgeier or Dowdle. That would likely account for roughly $5 million against the cap in the 2026 season. Doubling down on the position with Love would also come with a hefty price: Kelvin Banks Jr., the ninth-overall selection last year, signed a four-year deal worth $28 million. His first year had a cap hit of $5 million.

Are the Chiefs suddenly spending eight figures and utilizing a top-10 overall selection to fix the running back position? Some may believe that’s the best use of resources. Reasonable minds can disagree. I certainly don’t view it that way. This team has too many holes at too many valuable positions to spend that much precious capital on the backfield.

I marvel at the idea of Jeremiyah Love in a Chiefs uniform. I wouldn’t be opposed to that outcome if the draft were held in March and free agency took place in April. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality we live in.

Love is going to make an NFL fan base very happy. If Veach continues to operate the way he has in the past, I would be surprised if that fan base is located in Kansas City.

Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kansas-city-chiefs-news/193432/jeremiyah-love-chiefs-pipe-dream

 

[Kansas City Chiefs]

Chiefs News 1/30: Chiefs graded B- for hiring Eric Bieniemy

Nov 7, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy leaves the field after defeating the Green Bay Packers at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

The latest​

Grading every offensive and defensive coordinator hire: Chargers hit home run, Lions and Commanders take risks | CBS Sports

Offensive coordinator: Eric Bieniemy
Grade: B-

DeArdo: Like an old sitcom trying to relive its glory days, the Chiefs are clearly hoping Bieniemy can help them get back to what they once were.

From a familiarity standpoint, this makes a ton of sense. While his tough love coaching style isn’t for everyone, Bieniemy clearly has a strong working relationship with Patrick Mahomes, and that’s a big deal. If Bieniemy can help Mahomes return to MVP form, that’s what matters most.

That said, a coach is only as good as his players. Travis Kelce will be 37 next season, and Mahomes will be 31. Kansas City also doesn’t have anyone who can replicate what Tyreek Hill gave them during their first Super Bowl run. In short, Bieniemy will have to adjust to what the Chiefs are now, not what they used to be.

2 Reasons McCullough Isn’t a Lock as Chiefs RB Coach | Sports Illustrated

2. Kubiak watch

And if the Raiders win the Kubiak sweepstakes, they might want to give him the opportunity to keep McCullough, widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top running backs coaches.

Related to that, because teams can’t hire Kubiak until after the Super Bowl, they’d be reducing the time he has to hire his first coaching staff. That’s a reason the Raiders, and Cardinals for that matter, might want to decline interview requests for coaches under contract until hiring their head coaches.

Ashton Gillotte’s rookie year may force Chiefs into bold offseason cut | Arrowhead Addict

That means the Chiefs’ defensive ends currently under contract for next season are Karlaftis, Gillotte, Danna, and Felix Anudike-Uzomah, who has underwhelmed and is coming off an injury. When you look at it that way, Gillotte is clearly Kansas City’s second-best defensive end under contract for next season. However, the Chiefs simply can’t enter the season with him as their No. 2 defensive end.

The Chiefs must find an upgrade at defensive end opposite George Karlaftis, particularly on passing downs. Gillotte seems better suited for Danna’s former role as an early-down run stopper who comes off the field (or kicks inside) on passing downs. Consequently, the Chiefs could save almost $9 million by releasing Danna this offseason. As a rookie, Gillotte generated more pressure and graded out stronger against the run than Danna did.

Predicting 10 big-name NFL trade candidates and the teams that will cut a deal | FanSided

CB Trent McDuffie
Landing spot: Washington Commanders

Trent McDuffie hopes to reset the cornerback market in the next year, which puts his Chiefs future in doubt. The 25-year-old missed four games this season, but still logged an interception along with 63 tackles, doing his part despite Kansas City’s collective collapse. The Chiefs still have tons of long-term money on the books and probably don’t want to hand McDuffie a record-breaking contract, which sets the wheels in motion for a trade.

Enter the Washington Commanders. Dan Quinn has proven his ability to lead a great defense, but Washington just bled points last season. The roster is way too old, and the DB room features more than its share of question marks. McDuffie can come in, in the prime of his career, and give the Commanders a new long-term staple on the outside. Lest we forget, the Commanders are only a year removed from an appearance in the NFC Championship Game.

Around the NFL​

Bills’ Josh Allen expects to be ready for OTAs after foot surgery | ESPN

He was on crutches with his right foot in a walking boot following surgery Monday morning in Birmingham, Alabama. The surgery was done on a broken bone in his foot — the fifth metatarsal. Allen, 29, said the injury stemmed from an older incident that he aggravated in a Week 16 win over the Cleveland Browns. He did not miss any playing time due to the injury, though the reigning MVP described it as painful.

Allen did have to decline his appearance at the Pro Bowl Games during Super Bowl week due to injury.

“It’s a little painful right now, but it wasn’t a crazy surgery,” Allen said. “So not too long [of a recovery]. OTAs, I’ll be back and [it] shouldn’t hinder anything.”

Ex-Broncos OC Joe Lombardi: Sean Payton ‘was in one of those moods where he felt like some changes needed to be made’ | NFL.com

“Sean decided to move on, and I guess that’s all there is to say,” Lombardi told Tomasson in a phone interview. “I don’t think it’s ever a surprise (in the NFL). Not really. … I think you could tell he (Payton) was in one of those moods where he felt like some changes needed to be made and I guess he decided one of those was me. So I’ve been around him long enough to kind of read the tea leaves, I guess.”

Lombardi joined the Broncos when Payton was hired in 2023. He’d been with Payton, on and off, throughout his NFL career, spending 12 years under him across two stints with the New Orleans Saints.

Falcons restructure Kirk Cousins’ contract, will likely release him by March: Source | The Athletic

Atlanta converted Cousins’ 2026 salary from $35 million to $2.1 million, according to a league source, moving the leftover $32.9 million to his 2027 base salary, making his base salary for that season $67.9 million. The move essentially guarantees Cousins will be released before March 13 because that entire $67.9 million would be due to him if he’s still on the roster then.

Releasing Cousins with a post-June 1 designation would cost the Falcons $35 million of dead cap hit, which can be split into two payments of $22.5 million (2026) and $12.5 million (2027). This week’s move frees up some of that money earlier for Atlanta.

Cousins said Sunday that he wants to return for a 15th NFL season in 2026 and would be open to continuing to play in Atlanta.

“I’d like to keep playing, but we’ll see how things play out in March or even after that,” he said. “I would love to be back here. We’ll see how things play out. At this point, you kind of just see where it goes.”

In case you missed it on Arrowhead Pride​

Exploring the Chiefs’ options at right tackle this offseason

Free Agent Options

As alluded to earlier, the tackle market is bad. The Chiefs shouldn’t be in the Braden Smith market. Conklin and Havenstein are old and oft-injured. Even a younger player like Jonah Williams doesn’t make sense, as he’s played 15 games in two years. Maybe shoot for some depth, but free agency isn’t going to be how the Chiefs solve right tackle.

Draft Options

Let’s discuss the ninth overall pick. Should it be used on a right tackle? I don’t think so. It has nothing to do with the tackles that could be available; Utah right tackle Spencer Fano or Miami right tackle Francis Mauioga both are good players worthy of going top-10.

The problem with taking a right tackle at 9 is the idea of diminishing returns. The Chiefs already have a strong offensive line when healthy. How much better could their offensive line get?

Social media to make you think​

Reported #Chiefs WR coach Chad O’Shea was with Bieniemy and Brad Childress with the Vikings in 2006-2008

Deland McCullough was the RB coach for Reid and Bieniemy from 2018-2020 during the Chiefs first Super Bowl win.

— Nick Jacobs (@Jacobs71) January 29, 2026

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Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/kans...427/1-30-chiefs-graded-b-hiring-eric-bieniemy