When the Kansas City Chiefs let L’Jarius Sneed walk in free agency three seasons ago, plenty of fans were worried-and for good reason. Sneed had built a reputation as a physical, lockdown corner who brought an edge to Steve Spagnuolo’s defense. Losing a player like that, especially one who thrived in man coverage and wasn’t afraid to mix it up at the line of scrimmage, felt like a major blow.
But fast forward to today, and the move looks more like a calculated decision than a costly mistake.
Sneed signed a four-year, $76.4 million deal with the Tennessee Titans, a contract that reflected his perceived value as a top-tier cornerback. But since arriving in Nashville, things haven’t gone according to plan.
Injuries have been a major issue-knee and quad problems have limited him to just 12 games over the past two seasons. And even when he has been on the field, the production hasn’t matched the paycheck.
Now, with $7.5 million in guaranteed money set to hit the books on March 15, Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi is facing a tough decision. The expectation around the league is that Sneed will be released before that deadline. He’s even landed on a list of potential cap casualties compiled by salary cap expert Joel Corry.
And it’s not just the on-field struggles that are complicating Sneed’s situation.
Off the field, Sneed is dealing with serious legal trouble stemming from a December 2024 incident in Dallas County, Texas. He’s facing a civil suit and criminal charges, including a felony for failing to report a shooting. That kind of baggage makes him a tough sell for most front offices, especially for a player who hasn’t lived up to his contract.
Still, there’s been some quiet chatter about a possible reunion in Kansas City-on the right terms. A short-term, incentive-heavy deal could make sense if the Chiefs believe Sneed can return to form and stay out of trouble.
From a football standpoint, the fit is still there. Sneed thrived under Spagnuolo’s aggressive, press-heavy scheme, and his physical style of play was a natural match for the Chiefs’ defensive identity.
And let’s be honest-the Chiefs’ secondary could use some help. Trent McDuffie is due for an extension, and both Jaylen Watson and Bryan Cook are approaching free agency. The group held up well this season, but there were moments-especially against bigger, more physical receivers-where the absence of a player like Sneed was felt.
But the Chiefs also have to weigh that against the bigger picture. They’ve already spent the past year navigating off-field issues with wide receiver Rashee Rice. Adding another player with legal concerns-even one as familiar as Sneed-might not be a risk they’re willing to take.
At this point, Sneed’s future in the NFL feels uncertain. The talent is still there, but the injuries, the off-field issues, and the contract all cloud the outlook.
Whether he gets another shot in Kansas City or elsewhere, he’ll need to prove he can stay healthy, stay focused, and stay out of trouble. Otherwise, what once looked like a major loss for the Chiefs may end up being a smart move in hindsight.