Chiefs Face Critical Offseason Decisions After Super Bowl Loss

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — On February 19, 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs bid farewell to their championship dreams with emotional hugs in the Caesars Superdome, signaling a significant turning point for the franchise. As they transition out of their latest NFL season, the Chiefs now confront crucial decisions ahead of the upcoming NFL Combine in Indianapolis.

Franchise owner Clark Hunt, head coach Andy Reid, and general manager Brett Veach face a challenging offseason filled with tough choices required to maintain the team’s dynasty. Veach noted, “When we go into an offseason, we’ll sit there and go through general thoughts. He’ll always shoot me a text, ‘What do you think our three biggest needs are?’ Nine times out of ten, they are the same.”

Among the top priorities for the Chiefs is acquiring a left tackle capable of being a reliable starter for years. Uniquely, the team has started a different left tackle in each of their five Super Bowl appearances over the past six years. Last season, the Chiefs had four different players fill the role, including Kingsley Suamataia and D.J. Humphries.

Humphries, a 10-year veteran, expressed his desire to re-sign with the Chiefs, potentially under a one-year contract. However, the Chiefs have limited quality options in free agency. Notable veterans like Ronnie Stanley, Tyron Smith, and Cam Robinson may soon be available, but each comes with significant concerns, such as injury histories and subpar last seasons.

In the upcoming NFL Draft, the Chiefs, armed with only six picks, may need to trade up to secure a top left tackle. Smith is anticipated to be the most sought-after offensive lineman in free agency, and the Chiefs are reportedly not planning to tag him. Instead, a long-term contract appears to be the strategy, similar to the deal signed by center Creed Humphrey last offseason.

“He’s as good as they get,” Veach said about Smith shortly before Super Bowl LIX. Smith’s impressive performance, which included not allowing a sack across 655 pass-blocking snaps last season, solidified his status as a valuable asset.

Running back production also poses a challenge for the Chiefs. With Patrick Mahomes accounting for an overwhelming 72.5% of the team’s offensive yards last season, a more balanced rushing attack is essential. Last season’s standout running back, Kareem Hunt, who joined the team mid-year and proved effective, may or may not return, alongside Isiah Pacheco, who is recovering from a leg injury.

The Chiefs could require an additional draft pick in Day 2 to bolster their running back depth, with potential candidates including Kaleb Johnson and Omarion Hampton.

As for the wide receiver corps, remaining under contract for the 2025 season are Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and Skyy Moore. The Chiefs could benefit from re-signing Marquise Brown, who made an impact in just five appearances last season. With tight end Travis Kelce’s future uncertain, bolstering the receiver group becomes a priority. The team may also look to use a draft pick to select a bigger, faster receiver.

The defensive side isn’t overlooked either, with cornerback Trent McDuffie emerging as a key player. McDuffie’s performance has been stellar, and extending his contract would ensure stability in the Chiefs’ defense.

As this pivotal offseason unfolds, the decisions made by Hunt, Reid, and Veach could either propel the Chiefs back to championship contention or usher in a more challenging phase for the organization.