The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for a pivotal offseason, with several key positions needing attention as they await the return of their star quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. Mahomes is on the mend from a torn ACL that cut his 2025 season short, and his comeback will be crucial for the Chiefs' offensive aspirations.
In a move that brings familiarity and stability, Eric Bieniemy is back as the offensive coordinator. However, the Chiefs are eyeing an injection of explosiveness in their ground game, potentially by adding a dynamic running back to their roster.
There's uncertainty surrounding their receiving corps and tight end positions. Travis Kelce, the legendary tight end, has yet to announce whether he'll return for another season. Meanwhile, wide receiver Rashee Rice is navigating some off-field challenges, adding to the team's concerns.
On the offensive line, the Chiefs are particularly focused on upgrading the left tackle position, which has been a makeshift solution for some time. According to insider Jason La Canfora of SportsBoom, Kansas City is showing interest in Green Bay Packers left tackle Rasheed Walker. An anonymous general manager suggested that head coach Andy Reid is keen to resolve this issue before the draft, aiming to solidify the line to protect Mahomes.
Walker, who stands at an imposing 6-foot-6, fits the profile the Chiefs are seeking for their offensive line. The plan would be to address skill positions like receiver, tight end, and running back in the early rounds of the draft, focusing on adding speed and agility.
Walker, a seventh-round gem from the 2022 draft, has proven his worth by securing a starting role over a first-round pick. His track record includes 52 game appearances with 48 starts, showcasing his reliability and talent.
However, acquiring Walker won't come cheap. He's expected to command a contract in the ballpark of $25 million per year. This is a significant investment for a Chiefs team that needs to clear over $11 million in cap space before diving into free agency.
While Walker would undoubtedly bolster the Chiefs' offensive line, the financial implications are considerable, especially with other roster needs looming large after a season that saw Kansas City miss the playoffs. Balancing these priorities will be crucial for the Chiefs as they navigate this offseason.