Kansas City could stand to upgrade both offensive tackle spots coming off a Super Bowl defeat. Four Chiefs logged 75-plus snaps at left tackle in 2024, largely due to performance struggles, with starting LG Joe Thuney (whom they just shipped to Chicago) sliding outside after Week 14 with mixed results. Chiefs LTs allowed the fifth-highest pressure rate (12.4%) in the regular season. Meanwhile, Jawaan Taylor allowed a pressure rate of 8.3% on the right side, which did not justify the major contract signed in the 2023 offseason. However, Kansas City’s decision to tag Trey Smith solidifies the interior as one of the league’s best groups. K.C. also needs to add pass catchers, with four of their eight target leaders hitting free agency. With Travis Kelce returning for a 13th season and Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy in place outside, the Chiefs likely won’t break the bank on receiving talent. However, Kelce has been declining in effectiveness, generating +14.2 receiving EPA in 2024, by far his lowest mark since at least 2016 (2023’s figure was +41.9).  

The defense had a strong campaign and most of the pieces remain intact. LB Nick Bolton (106) and S Justin Reid (85) finished first and third, respectively, on the team in tackles and both are free agents. Bolton could garner a hefty contract that may be tough for the Chiefs to meet. On the defensive interior, free-agent DT Tershawn Wharton was a key piece next to Chris Jones, as he generated the third-most pressures among Chiefs defenders with 35. Re-signing or replacing Wharton will be key for the future of this defensive front. The Chiefs could also look for an upgrade at outside corner opposite Trent McDuffie. With a decent amount of roster work to do, the cap-strapped Chiefs could be bargain hunting or gearing toward a youth movement.