The Kansas City Chiefs trade rumors are already heating up following their heartbreaking Super Bowl loss. While they made an impressive run to the final game, falling short has left the franchise with critical questions to answer. The biggest storyline? Travis Kelce’s future. After an emotional season, speculation is growing about whether Kelce could be on the move or if Kansas City will double down and retool around him for another championship push.
But Kelce isn’t the only player in question. The offense, defense, and special teams all have areas that need to be addressed. Let’s break down what went wrong, which players could be leaving, potential trade targets, and what the Kansas City Chiefs trade rumors suggest about their plans heading into the offseason.
Kansas City’s 2024/2025 Season Recap: A Wild Ride to the Super Bowl
The Chiefs had one of their most challenging seasons under Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid. The offense lacked firepower at wide receiver, and while Mahomes made magic happen, there were clear struggles. The defense stepped up in a major way, keeping them competitive, but it wasn’t enough to win back-to-back championships.
Kansas City fought through a tough AFC playoff run, overcoming the Ravens in the AFC Championship Game before falling short in the Super Bowl. While the Chiefs showed their usual resilience, the Eagles were simply the better team on that day.
One factor that might not be getting enough attention? Patrick Mahomes likely suffered a concussion in the first quarter. He played through it, but his decision-making and timing seemed off, potentially explaining why the offense struggled to execute in key moments.
Travis Kelce’s Future: Could a Trade or Retirement Happen?
The biggest name in Kansas City Chiefs trade rumors is Travis Kelce. The 34-year-old tight end remains one of the best in the game, but his production dipped slightly this season. While he still had clutch playoff performances, the Chiefs may have to decide whether to keep him as their offensive focal point or look toward the future. There is also the possibility of Travis retiring unless another fire is lit before the new season like a blockbuster trade.
Why the Chiefs Might Consider Trading Kelce
- His contract carries a $14 million cap hit for 2025.
- He will turn 35 next season, and Kansas City might want to invest in younger talent.
- The offense needs to evolve, and the Chiefs could use assets from a Kelce trade to acquire a top-tier wide receiver.
- Kelce’s relationship with Mahomes remains strong, but if he wants another ring, he might consider finishing his career elsewhere.
Potential Landing Spots for Kelce
If the Chiefs shock the league and move Kelce, here are some realistic destinations:
- Buffalo Bills – They need a reliable weapon for Josh Allen.
- Dallas Cowboys – A tight-end upgrade could elevate their offense.
- San Francisco 49ers – If they lose George Kittle, Kelce could slide in as a perfect replacement.
- Los Angeles Chargers – Reuniting with former coach Kellen Moore might be an intriguing option.
While trading Kelce seems unlikely, it’s not impossible, and the Chiefs front office will have to weigh the long-term benefits of keeping him versus reloading the roster.
What the Chiefs Need on Offense: Addressing the Biggest Weaknesses
The Kansas City Chiefs trade rumors are heating up, and it’s no secret that their offense needs major upgrades if they want to reclaim their dominance next season. Despite Patrick Mahomes’ ability to extend plays and make magic happen, the team’s offensive struggles were evident throughout the 2024 season. Wide receiver play, offensive line depth, and a lack of explosiveness all plagued Kansas City, ultimately culminating in their Super Bowl defeat.
Here’s a deep dive into what the Chiefs must address this offseason and what Chiefs trade rumors suggest about their strategy.
1. The Wide Receiver Crisis: Who Will Help Mahomes?
The biggest storyline surrounding the Chiefs’ offensive struggles has been their lack of a reliable receiving corps. For years, they had a cheat code in Tyreek Hill, but since his departure, the team has failed to find a legitimate No. 1 wide receiver. This season, Rashee Rice emerged as the only consistent threat, but he alone isn’t enough. Drops, poor route running, and a lack of explosiveness haunted Kansas City’s offense in 2024.
Who Could the Chiefs Target?
With Chiefs trade rumors in full swing, several big-name wide receivers could be available via trade or free agency. Kansas City has limited cap space, but with the right moves, they could land a game-changer.
Top Trade Targets:
- Tee Higgins (Bengals) – Cincinnati has to decide whether to pay Higgins or Ja’Marr Chase, and they likely can’t afford both. The Chiefs could swoop in and provide Mahomes with a physical receiver who can win contested catches.
- Brandon Aiyuk (49ers) – San Francisco might not be able to afford Aiyuk’s contract extension, and if he becomes available, Kansas City should make an aggressive push.
- Diontae Johnson (Steelers) – Johnson has been linked to trade talks in the past, and his route-running ability would immediately improve Kansas City’s offense.
- Courtland Sutton (Broncos) – If Denver is willing to trade within the division, Sutton would provide the Chiefs with a big-bodied receiver for red-zone situations.
Potential Free Agent Signings:
- Mike Evans (Buccaneers) – While Evans is 30, he remains one of the most reliable deep threats in the NFL. If Tampa Bay doesn’t re-sign him, the Chiefs should make a strong push.
- Marquise “Hollywood” Brown (Cardinals) – Brown’s speed could provide the Chiefs with a much-needed deep threat.
- Calvin Ridley (Jaguars) – Ridley is an elite route-runner who could thrive in Andy Reid’s system.
The Kadarius Toney & Skyy Moore Problem
Kansas City took chances on young receivers like Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore, but neither has lived up to expectations. Toney has struggled with drops and decision-making, while Moore has failed to carve out a consistent role. Expect the Chiefs to move on from one or both this offseason as they look for a fresh start at the position.
2. Offensive Line Depth: Protecting Mahomes is the Key to Success
The Chief’s offensive line has been solid, but not elite. In the Super Bowl, Mahomes was under constant pressure from the Eagles’ defensive front, exposing cracks in Kansas City’s pass protection. While tackles Donovan Smith and Jawaan Taylor played well at times, consistency remains a concern.
Where Does Kansas City Need to Upgrade?
- Left Tackle – The Chiefs could move on from Donovan Smith and find a long-term answer to protect Mahomes’ blind side.
- Interior Line – While Creed Humphrey and Joe Thuney are among the best in the league, depth behind them is thin.
- Right Tackle Competition – Jawaan Taylor struggled with penalties this season, and Kansas City might bring in a rookie or veteran to compete for the job.
Top Offensive Line Targets:
- David Bakhtiari (Packers, trade target) – If the Packers decide to move on from their veteran left tackle, the Chiefs could make a deal to improve their protection.
- Tyron Smith (Cowboys, free agent) – The longtime Cowboys tackle could provide veteran leadership and experience on a short-term deal.
- Mike Onwenu (Patriots, free agent) – A versatile lineman who can play guard or tackle, giving the Chiefs valuable depth.
Expect Kansas City to invest a high draft pick in an offensive lineman to ensure Mahomes is protected for years to come.
What the Chiefs Need on Defense for 2025
Despite the offensive inconsistencies, Kansas City’s defense was a bright spot. Under Steve Spagnuolo, the unit ranked in the top five in points allowed, often carrying the team through low-scoring games. However, there are still key areas that need improvement.
1. Edge Rusher Depth
Chris Jones remains an elite force in the middle, but Kansas City lacked a true edge rusher to complement him. George Karlaftis showed flashes, but the team needs a dominant pass rusher off the edge to take pressure off the secondary.
Possible Trade Targets & Free Agents:
- Chase Young (49ers, free agent) – A former No. 2 overall pick, Young could be a perfect fit for Spagnuolo’s scheme.
- Danielle Hunter (Vikings, free agent) – One of the most productive pass rushers in the league.
- Josh Uche (Patriots, trade target) – If New England enters a rebuild, the Chiefs could strike a deal for the young pass rusher.
2. Secondary Reinforcements
L’Jarius Sneed is set to become a free agent, and while Kansas City wants to re-sign him, they may not have the cap space to do so. If he leaves, the Chiefs trade rumors suggest they could target a top cornerback via trade or in the draft.
Top Options:
- Jaylon Johnson (Bears, free agent) – One of the best cover corners available.
- Patrick Surtain II (Broncos, trade target) – Would Denver trade him within the division? Probably not, but he’d be a dream fit for Kansas City.
- Kool-Aid McKinstry (Alabama, draft target) – A lockdown corner prospect the Chiefs could target in the first round.
Special Teams: An Overlooked Concern
While Harrison Butker remains a top-tier kicker, Kansas City’s return game was underwhelming. The Chiefs rarely broke big returns, often putting their offense in poor field position.
What Needs to Change?
- Improve Kick & Punt Returns – Finding a speedy return specialist could add an extra dimension to special teams.
- Punter Upgrade? – Tommy Townsend was solid, but if the Chiefs want to maximize field position, a change could be considered.
New Coaches & Draft Picks: Who’s Coming In?
Coaching Changes
- Eric Bieniemy could return as offensive coordinator after struggling in Washington.
- Matt Nagy’s future is uncertain as OC, and the Chiefs could look elsewhere.
Key Draft Picks
The Chiefs hold the 32nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Potential targets:
- WR Keon Coleman (FSU)
- OT Amarius Mims (Georgia)
- CB Cooper DeJean (Iowa)
Expect Kansas City to target a wide receiver early, but don’t be surprised if they trade up for a bigger impact player.
Players Who Could Be Leaving
1. L’Jarius Sneed (CB)
Sneed is a top free-agent cornerback, and Kansas City may not be able to afford him.
2. Chris Jones (DT)
Jones signed a one-year deal last offseason, and while both sides want him back, money will be an issue.
3. Clyde Edwards-Helaire (RB)
The former first-round pick fell out of the rotation and is unlikely to return.
What’s Next for the Chiefs?
The Kansas City Chiefs trade rumors will continue to swirl as the offseason unfolds. Whether Travis Kelce stays or goes, the Chiefs have a clear mission—get Mahomes more weapons and reload for another championship run.
With smart roster moves, key trades, and strong draft selections, Kansas City has all the tools to bounce back and chase another Super Bowl next season.
