Kansas City Chiefs: Navigating a Challenging Offseason
The Kansas City Chiefs find themselves in a tricky spot as they head into the offseason, grappling with a projected cap space of -$10.7 million and holding six draft picks. Here’s a closer look at their current situation and what they need to address to bounce back in 2026.
Draft Picks
- 1st Round: No.
9
- 2nd Round: No.
40
- 3rd Round: No.
74
- 4th Round: No.
109
- 5th Round: No.
146
- 5th Round (compensatory): No.
176
Key Free Agents
The Chiefs have a roster full of notable free agents, including TE Travis Kelce, CB Jaylen Watson, and WR JuJu Smith-Schuster. With players like DE Charles Omenihu and RB Isiah Pacheco also hitting free agency, Kansas City has some tough decisions to make.
Top Three Needs
- Pass Catcher
Since trading Tyreek Hill in 2022, Kansas City has struggled to maintain its offensive explosiveness, even with Patrick Mahomes’ brilliance under center. The offense hit a low point in 2025, and Mahomes’ ACL injury highlighted the need for a stronger supporting cast.
The Chiefs need a dynamic playmaker, whether it’s a wide receiver or tight end, to reignite their attack. While a reunion with Hill is tempting, his current injury situation makes it clear that Kansas City must look elsewhere for immediate help.
- Edge Rusher
The defense leans heavily on DT Chris Jones and DC Steve Spagnuolo’s schemes. While Jones continues to dominate, the Chiefs need more from their pass rush.
With Jones turning 32, Kansas City must find additional impact players to maintain their defensive edge. DE George Karlaftis has been solid, but the Chiefs need a true game-changer on the edge.
- Running Back
The Chiefs’ pursuit of Jets RB Breece Hall last year underscores their need for speed and explosiveness in the backfield. While Hunt and Pacheco are reliable, they lack the burst needed to keep defenses honest.
Kansas City must explore free agency or the draft to find a back who can add a spark both on the ground and through the air.
One Big Question: Has the League Caught Up?
Kansas City’s recent struggles raise questions about whether the league has adapted to their style. Head Coach Andy Reid, a future Hall of Famer, has relied on a shotgun and RPO-heavy offense that once dominated.
However, as more teams shift to play-action, the Chiefs’ approach seems less effective. The return of former OC Eric Bieniemy aims to inject fresh ideas, but it’s crucial for the Chiefs to innovate rather than rely on past successes.
Reid’s legacy as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history is unquestioned, but even legends can lose their edge. As he approaches 68, the Chiefs must ensure they’re evolving with the game to remain contenders. The upcoming offseason will be pivotal in determining whether Kansas City can reclaim its place atop the NFL hierarchy.