The Kansas City Chiefs know that there is some serious wheeling and dealing to do this offseason, and it is in multiple positions where they must get proactive.
The offensive line is the biggest need right now, with the left tackle spot up for grabs for either a free agent or a first-round draftee to make their own.
But receiver is also a position that Patrick Mahomes would likely want to get a little stronger. Juju Smith-Schuster, DeAndre Hopkins, and Marquise Brown are free agents, and it isn’t known if one or any will be back in 2025.
For NFL.com, getting a receiver is still crucial, but don’t expect the Chiefs to pay big money to acquire one.
“With Travis Kelce returning for a 13th season and Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy in place outside, the Chiefs likely won’t break the bank on receiving talent,” NFL.com writes. “However, Kelce has been declining in effectiveness, generating +14.2 receiving EPA in 2024, by far his lowest mark since at least 2016 (2023’s figure was +41.9).”
So don’t expect the likes of Tee Higgins, Davante Adams, Amari Cooper, or DK Metcalf to come walking through the doors.
But it is here where a return for Hopkins or Brown makes sense. Hopkins joined mid-season and showed flashes, while Brown missed the majority of the year and looked solid upon his return.
Even Keenan Allen would be a move that wouldn’t break the bank. So, there are options for the Chiefs to explore, and while fortifying the offensive line is high on the wishlist, so too is getting Mahomes’ weapons sorted.