Chiefs on the Brink: Will They Fill the Glaring Void at Defensive Tackle?

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The Chiefs’ impressive nine-year reign as AFC West champions is facing a significant challenge this season.

With Ronnie Stanley re-signing with the Ravens, the top choice for left tackle has vanished from the market. Consequently, the Chiefs turned to Jaylon Moore. Having primarily served as a backup during his tenure in San Francisco—making only five starts last season—Moore is now projected to take on the left tackle position for Kansas City. While this move holds potential, it carries its share of risks. Moore’s pass block win rate of 81.1% last season ranked 65th among tackles, hinting at his need for improvement.

Meanwhile, the Raiders welcomed Pete Carroll as their new head coach while also upgrading their quarterback position with Geno Smith. The Broncos have fortified their already strong defense with new talents like Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga. The Chargers have also made strides by acquiring Mekhi Becton in a bid to strengthen their offensive line. It appears that the rest of the division has improved, while Kansas City’s off-season moves seem lacking.

Verdict: OVERREACTION

Five Things to Know About New Chiefs QB Gardner Minshew | The Mothership

4. He’s brimming with personality.

Minshew has carved out a niche for himself with his larger-than-life persona. From his iconic mustache to a brief mullet, he’s impossible to miss! In addition to his unique style, Minshew has an adventurous spirit—having traveled across the country in an RV in 2019, flown an F-16 fighter jet, and even lived in a converted bus outside a gym during the previous offseason.

In a nutshell, Minshew embraces life to the fullest! 🎉

2025 NFL Free Agency: Remaining Needs for Every Team Post-Free Agency | CBS Sports

Chiefs: Defensive tackle

Kansas City has enjoyed solid performances alongside Chris Jones for years, but recent departures such as Khalen Saunders and Derrick Nnadi have left the unit thinner than it’s been in a while. With potential options dwindling, it’s crucial for the franchise to rebuild this position through a deep draft.

While running back is another position of consideration, they have shown hesitance to invest heavily there since Clyde Edwards-Helaire did not pan out as anticipated. 🚀

2025 NFL Mock Draft: Giants Stick at No. 3 and Choose a QB; Packers Settle a Two-Decade Drought | CBS Sports

Round 1 - Pick 31

Grey Zabel IOL

North Dakota State • Sr • 6’6” / 312 lbs

Grey Zabel displayed what it takes to be a Day 1 starter during the Senior Bowl, making him a valuable addition for the Chiefs, especially in light of the void left by Joe Thuney. His experience playing tackle at North Dakota State could also serve as a handy backup plan.

2025 NFL Mock Draft: Jaxson Dart Enters Top 3, Abdul Carter Slips to Jets | PFF

31. Kansas City Chiefs: Defensive Interior Derrick Harmon, Oregon

The Chiefs are eager to bolster their offensive line, but with top prospects ranking lower on the board, they opt for the next best available rusher in Harmon, who recorded an impressive 55 pressures in the last season. Learning alongside Chris Jones would set Harmon up for success.

Around the NFL 🌍

Assessing 2025 NFL Free Agency Contracts You Might Have Missed | Bleacher Report

Cincinnati Bengals Secure WRs Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins

Dylan Buell/Getty Images

Chase Contract: Four years, $161 million

Higgins Contract: Four years, $115 million (according to FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz)

With these signings, Cincinnati is set at wide receiver for the future, marking the end of prolonged contract negotiations with both players. Chase's contract sets a new standard in annual salary for non-quarterbacks, while Higgins closely follows suit. As a powerhouse passing attack, they could continue to thrive moving forward. 🎯

Eagles Strike Deal with Ex-Giants Pass Rusher Azeez Ojulari | ESPN

While details remain undisclosed, sources indicate that the agreement is valued at $4 million. Ojulari, who notched six sacks for the Giants last season in 11 games, will join Joshua Uche on the roster, following the loss of Josh Sweat to the Arizona Cardinals. The Giants selected Ojulari in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft, and while he has shown promise early on, staying healthy has posed challenges.

Texans and Derek Stingley Jr. Conclude $90 Million Deal, Making Him the Highest-Paid DB | NFL.com

In a landmark move, the Texans have penned a three-year, $90 million extension with cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., which includes a staggering $89 million guaranteed. This new deal sets a record for defensive backs, emphasizing their commitment to retaining top talent on their roster.

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