The Kansas City Chiefs stand on the precipice of history. No team in the modern, high-scoring NFL era has captured three consecutive Super Bowl titles. This unprecedented opportunity elevates the importance of every offseason move for the Chiefs, and General Manager Brett Veach isn’t shying away from the challenge.
While Patrick Mahomes’ brilliance orchestrated a Super Bowl LVIII victory, weaknesses were exposed across the roster. Veach, known for his shrewd decision-making, won’t be swayed by championship sentimentality – upgrades are coming.
As reigning champions, the Kansas Chiefs possess limitless potential heading into 2024. Patrick Mahomes reigns supreme as the league’s MVP-caliber quarterback, Travis Kelce remains a cornerstone in Andy Reid’s offense, and the defense’s ability to stifle high-powered offenses on the biggest stage is undeniable.
Kansas City Chiefs Offseason Recap
However, complacency isn’t a part of the Chiefs’ DNA. The Chiefs addressed a major concern by locking down star defensive tackle Chris Jones with a massive contract extension. Jones’ presence anchors the defensive line and creates pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
The situation at cornerback is less clear-cut. The Kansas City Chiefs opted to retain L’Jarius Sneed by placing the franchise tag on him. Sneed’s ball-hawking ability is a valuable asset, but contract negotiations haven’t yielded an extension, and he has been granted permission to seek a trade. Whether Sneed remains in Kansas City hinges on reaching a long-term deal or finding a suitable trade partner. If Sneed departs, the Chiefs will need to identify a replacement through the draft or free agency.
There’s always room for improvement. Veach initiated the restructuring process by acquiring explosive wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown in free agency, but the journey is far from complete.
With the 2024 NFL Draft approaching, the Chiefs will shift their attention toward identifying and selecting the talent necessary to solidify their championship foundation. Veach’s strategic maneuvering will be crucial in the team’s quest for a historic three-peat.
Kansas City Chiefs Effective Salary Cap Space
(how much a team will have to spend after signing at least 51 players and its projected rookie class to its roster.)
$4,865,612 (per )
Kansas City Chiefs Pending Free Agents
| Player | Pos. | Type | Snaps ▾ | Age | Current APY | Guarantees |
| Mike Danna | EDGE | UFA | 68.50% | 27 | $889,665 | $263,660 |
| Donovan Smith | LT | UFA | 66.30% | 31 | $3,000,000 | $1,980,000 |
| Mike Edwards | S | UFA | 57.10% | 28 | $3,000,000 | $2,480,000 |
| Marquez Valdes-Scantling | WR | SFA | 54.70% | 30 | $10,000,000 | $8,560,000 |
| Jerick McKinnon | RB | UFA | 23.40% | 32 | $1,317,500 | $1,092,500 |
| Blake Bell | TE | UFA | 22.20% | 33 | $1,317,500 | $0 |
| Clyde Edwards-Helaire | RB | UFA | 20.10% | 25 | $2,705,394 | $9,955,850 |
| Mecole Hardman | WR | UFA | 13.60% | 26 | $4,000,000 | $3,580,000 |
| Richie James | WR | UFA | 12.10% | 29 | $1,232,500 | $552,500 |
| Blaine Gabbert | QB | UFA | 7.00% | 35 | $1,317,500 | $1,092,500 |
| Darius Harris | LB | UFA | 0.00% | 28 | $1,010,000 | $0 |
Kansas City Chiefs Offseason Decisions/Positional Needs
Wide Receiver
The Kansas City Chiefs receiving corps remains a work in progress despite the splashy acquisition of Marquise “Hollywood” Brown. While Brown brings explosiveness and a deep threat element, the team still has clear areas for improvement.
Rashee Rice’s strength lies in yards after catch, but questions linger about his ability to excel as a true No. 1 receiver or dominate downfield routes. Justin Watson is still in town, but reducing his snap share should be a priority. Marquez Valdes-Scantling was a salary cap casualty, Skyy Moore and Kadarius Toney were big swings but missed, and Mecole Hardman and Richie James are not long-term answers either.
I’d expect the Chiefs to add to the position room with one of their first two picks in April’s draft.
Offensive Line
General Manager Brett Veach will lꦰikely explore multiple avenues to solidify the tackle positions. Free agency presents the most immediate opportunity to find a starting-caliber left tackle. Addressing the right tackle position could🎉 involve giving one of the young players a shot or potentially exploring a veteran free-agent option as well.
While the interior of the line boasts stability, the tackles underwhelmed in 2023. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor led the league in offensive penalties (20), hindering drives and creating unnecessary yardage losses. Left tackle Donovan Smith also stru♐ggled with penalties and consistency, raising concerns about his ability to protect Patrick Mahomes at a high level. Compounding the issue, Smith is a free agent entering his age-31 season. A reunion with the Chiefs seems unlikely. They have internal options, primarily 2023 third-round pick Wanya Morris, with depth behind him in Lucas Niang and Darian Kinnard. However, their lack of extensive playing experience creates uncertainty.
Running Back
The Kansas City Chiefs are tasked with revamping their running back room this offseason following the departures of Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire in free agency. While Isiah Pacheco showcased his strength as a downhill runner, excelling in traditional handoffs and exploiting holes created by the Chiefs’ powerful offensive line, they have a clear opportunity to elevate the position’s overall impact. Pacheco displayed growth in receiving and pass protection; the Chiefs need fresh legs and a more dynamic presence to complement Pacheco’s power running style.
