After a rough start to the 2025 NFL season with two consecutive losses, the Kansas City Chiefs have found their rhythm, winning three of their last four games. The recent turnaround has put them back in the playoff conversation, but questions remain about whether the roster has the depth needed to sustain a postseason push.
With the NFL trade deadline approaching on November 4, the Chiefs could be exploring ways to strengthen their lineup. While early speculation centered on the running back position, recent reports suggest Kansas City may instead focus on bolstering its defensive front, an area that has shown inconsistency through the first half of the season.
Despite flashes of solid play, the Chiefs’ defense has struggled at times, particularly in key losses to the Chargers, Eagles, and Jaguars. The unit has lacked stability against both the run and the pass, leading to speculation that the front office might target reinforcements before the deadline closes. These potential additions could prove crucial as the Chiefs aim to solidify their defense and remain contenders deep into the regular season and beyond.
Chiefs’ possible trade deadline moves
Although speculation around the Kansas City Chiefs’ roster has centered on their running back depth, the team appears to have a different focus ahead of the NFL trade deadline. Contrary to expectations, Kansas City’s main priority is not on the offensive side of the ball but rather on strengthening its defense.
The Chiefs have conceded 124 points through their first six games, averaging just over 20 points allowed per contest, a concerning figure for a team with championship ambitions. In four of those games, opponents have reached or surpassed the 20-point mark, exposing a defensive unit that has struggled to maintain consistency.
According to a report by Diana Russini of The Athletic, the Chiefs are actively exploring defensive line reinforcements. “The Chiefs are shopping for defensive linemen, but not running backs,” Russini noted, suggesting the front office sees defensive improvement as the key to sustaining their success.
As Baltimore’s defense attempts to get healthier and fix issues during its bye week, one league executive was blunt in his assessment of what the Ravens need to do.https://t.co/d50PKCJnTp pic.twitter.com/iLq4Nr5znG
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) October 18, 2025
The struggles up front have become increasingly evident this season. Despite owning the league’s 10th-most efficient rushing offense, thanks largely to Patrick Mahomes’ mobility, Kansas City’s defensive line ranks just 21st in pass rush win rate and 31st in run stop win rate, per ESPN.
While the Chiefs’ aggressive blitzing has occasionally covered their deficiencies, a reliable pass rusher could provide the stability their defense needs. With the November 4 deadline approaching, Kansas City’s next move could define the balance of power in the AFC.
Kansas City Chiefs looking to turn their season around
The Kansas City Chiefs are determined to turn their season around after a rocky start that has kept them from maintaining a winning record. Consistency has been an issue since the beginning of the campaign, as the defending contenders have struggled to find rhythm on both sides of the ball.
Currently sitting at 3-3, the Chiefs will look to climb above .500 when they face the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday afternoon at Allegiant Stadium, a matchup that, at least on paper, appears favorable for Kansas City.
