The Kansas City Chiefs are coming off a disappointing 6-11 season in 2025, a stark contrast to their recent dominance that saw them in five of the last seven Super Bowls, clinching three titles. As we dive into the 2026 offseason, it's clear the Chiefs' leadership is determined to make last year a mere blip on their radar.
The Chiefs stirred the pot by trading All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams. The unease didn't stop there, as cornerback Jaylen Watson and safety Bryan Cook both inked deals with the Rams and Cincinnati Bengals, respectively. But if you know Chiefs GM Brett Veach, you know there’s a method to the madness.
Historically, Veach has avoided handing out hefty second contracts to star defensive backs. Remember when the Chiefs traded Marcus Peters in 2018 or let Charvarius Ward walk in 2022?
Even two-time Super Bowl champ L'Jarius Sneed was traded in 2024. Now, with Cook's departure, the Chiefs are moving swiftly to fill the void.
Enter Alohi Gilman. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Chiefs are set to sign the former Baltimore Ravens safety to a three-year, $24.75 million deal, with $15 million guaranteed. This move is part of a larger strategy, as highlighted by Sam McDowell from The Kansas City Star, noting that McDuffie, Watson, and Cook secured a combined $215 million in contracts recently.
Gilman, who joined the Ravens via trade from the Chargers, made an immediate impact. His solid play allowed All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton to showcase his versatility. Expect Gilman to fit seamlessly into Steve Spagnuolo's defensive scheme in Kansas City.
In other moves, the Chiefs are also reportedly adding former Seattle Seahawks running back and Super Bowl LX MVP Kenneth Walker to their roster. With the legal tampering period in full swing, these agreements set the stage for the new league year and free agency kickoff on Wednesday at 4 p.m.
EST. The Chiefs are clearly on a mission to reclaim their throne.