The Kansas City Chiefs have struggled with an inconsistent offense and some uncharacteristic mistakes from quarterback Patrick Mahomes this season, but one insider believes help is on the way next year.
The Chiefs fell to 6-7 this season and have a steep path back to the playoffs, which would require them to win out in their four remaining games. While the chances of reaching a fourth consecutive Super Bowl may be slim, the Chiefs could have a chance to reload in the offseason by targeting a reliable pass-catcher.
Chiefs Could Find Missing Piece in Receiving Corps
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted that the Chiefs need a “classic boundary receiver” and believes they can find one in free agency.
“Alec Pierce would satisfy that need in Kansas City, which has been starved for explosive playmaking on the outside since Tyreek Hill was traded after the 2021 season,” Fowler wrote.
Pierce has been a consistent weapon for the Indianapolis Colts and is on pace for the best output of his career. He has 38 receptions for 769 yards and two touchdowns this season. While he may not replicate the game-breaking abilities of Hill, Pierce would add a consistent option for Mahomes and fit in the team’s rather tight budget, Fowler suggested.
“The Chiefs are much lower on space, sitting at negative-$42.8 million, but cuts are on the way for a team that might look drastically different this time next year,” Fowler wrote. “Also, adding an explosive running back such as Breece Hall or Travis Etienne Jr. is worth exploring for Kansas City.”
Silver Lining in Kansas City’s Disappointing Season
ESPN’s Dan Graziano also believes the Chiefs are due for some upgrades on offense and suggested that missing the playoffs for the first time in more than a decade may not be such a bad thing for the long-term trajectory of the team. Graziano believes the Chiefs could address both aspects of their offense.
“Running back makes sense for the Chiefs, as does diversifying their WR room,” Graziano wrote. “I wonder if missing the playoffs and having a reset forced upon them might not be the worst thing in the world — though I’m sure the Chiefs don’t see it that way.”
The Chiefs may be in line for some upgrades whether they make the playoffs or not. Veteran tight end Travis Kelce considered retirement before ultimately returning for this season, but could be nearing the end of his career.
Mahomes appeared to hint at Kelce’s retirement, saying after last week’s loss to the Houston Texans that he is cherishing however much time he has left with the future Hall of Fame tight end.
“Every season I’ve had with him these last few years, I try to cherish because you never know,” Mahomes said. “He got himself in great shape this year and he’s played great football and he’ll have the option to do whatever he wants to do after this season, but I know one thing, he’s giving everything he has the rest of this season to try to make a playoff run.”
