After securing consecutive Super Bowl victories, the Kansas City Chiefs are now focusing on their offseason activities with a largely settled roster. Following the conclusion of the 2024 NFL Draft and a slowdown in free agency, teams are now gearing up for the challenging days ahead. However, there might still be opportunities for the Chiefs to enhance their roster. Notably, there are several players who were part of the Kansas City team last season but have yet to sign new contracts.
1. Donovan Smith, OT
While Donovan Smith may not be the ideal candidate to start at left tackle, his veteran presence could still be valuable for the Chiefs. Currently, the team has two young players vying for the position: second-round rookie Kingsley Suamataia and last year’s third-round pick, Wanya Morris.
Smith’s performance notably declined in 2023, particularly in pass protection. According to Pro Football Focus, his grade dropped from 70.0 in 2022 to 60.3 last season. This decline is concerning and could be attributed to age.
At 31 years old, Smith may not have many productive seasons left. However, for a team aiming for another Super Bowl appearance, retaining Smith could prove beneficial. He could contribute by mentoring the young players and providing depth on the right side, behind Jawaan Taylor, thus bolstering the Chiefs’ offense.
2. Mecole Hardman, WR
After spending four seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, wide receiver Mecole Hardman made a move to the New York Jets last offseason. However, his time in New York didn’t go as planned. Despite being active for just five games and receiving only three targets, he caught just one pass for six yards. Consequently, he was traded back to the Chiefs in exchange for swapping late-round picks.
Upon his return to the Chiefs, Hardman managed to catch 14 of 21 targets in six games, accumulating 118 yards. While he didn’t have a significant impact, his familiarity with the offense and locker room proved beneficial. Additionally, he contributed on special teams as a return man.
It’s worth noting that Hardman caught the game-winning touchdown in Super Bowl LVIII just a few months prior to these events.
During this offseason, the Chiefs have added Marquise “Hollywood” Brown through signing and drafted Xavier Worthy in the first round. However, Rashee Rice could potentially miss a significant portion of the season due to suspension. Consequently, there’s a sense of urgency to bolster the receiving corps further. Although the Chiefs still have Skyy Moore, Justin Watson, and Kadarius Toney, depth remains a concern.
3. Jerick McKinnon, RB
At this juncture, the running back depth for the Chiefs appears thinner than desired, with Isiah Pacheco serving as the primary option backed by Clyde Edwards-Helaire and limited alternatives. The recent release of La’Mical Perine has further clarified the situation, leaving a room with scant experience or proven productivity behind the main duo, hinting at the potential return of a familiar player.
Jerick McKinnon emerges as the missing component in the Chiefs’ backfield, offering a proven complement to Pacheco who can relieve him on third downs and provide a versatile threat, excelling as a pass blocker with reliable hands. McKinnon’s availability as a free agent likely stems from his age (32) and injury history, factors that often lead to uncertainty. While the Chiefs may prefer a younger, fresher option to assume the role, McKinnon’s proficiency on passing downs has been notable, making him a viable candidate for re-signing.
The Chiefs have demonstrated a willingness to retain familiar faces across various positions, and McKinnon could potentially fit into this trend, providing stability until a clearer contender emerges, possibly during training camp.
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