The Kansas City Chiefs are pulling out all the stops to ensure Patrick Mahomes has a stellar return. The star quarterback, a three-time Super Bowl MVP and two-time NFL MVP, is on the mend from a torn ACL and LCL suffered last December. The Chiefs are making significant moves to rebuild the offense around him, starting with a blockbuster acquisition: Kenneth Walker III, the reigning Super Bowl LX MVP from the Seattle Seahawks.
Adding to the excitement, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the Chiefs are set to re-sign the legendary tight end Travis Kelce for his 14th season. At 36, Kelce continues to be a cornerstone of the franchise, holding records for career receptions (1,080), yards (13,002), and touchdowns (82).
His return is music to Mahomes' ears, as evidenced by his celebratory Instagram post. The deal is reportedly worth $12 million, with the potential to reach $15 million.
But the Chiefs weren't done making moves. Late Monday night, they agreed to terms with wide receiver Tyquan Thornton on a two-year, $11 million deal, potentially rising to $14 million.
While these deals can't be finalized until the new league year begins on Wednesday at 4 p.m. EST, the intentions are clear.
Thornton, who joined the Chiefs' practice squad in November 2024, proved to be a revelation last season. The former New England Patriots second-round pick emerged as a reliable deep threat for Mahomes, especially when key players were sidelined. Despite limited snaps after Week 7, Thornton racked up a career-high 438 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 23.1 yards per catch across 14 games.
His knack for big plays, highlighted by tying for 21st in the NFL with eight downfield receptions, suggests a promising future. With offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy back in the fold, the Chiefs are poised to reignite their explosive offense, and Thornton could play a pivotal role.
The Chiefs are determined to bounce back from a challenging 6-11 season in 2025. They aim to continue their dynasty, having appeared in five of the last seven Super Bowls and winning three.
Although they fell short in their historic attempt for a three-peat in 2024, losing to Philadelphia in Super Bowl LIX, the pieces are being set for another strong run. With Mahomes' return and strategic acquisitions, Kansas City is ready to make waves once again.