BIG BOMBSHELL: Chiefs Prepare for Major Moves — Trade Talks Heat Up for Key Positions

The Kansas City Chiefs, a franchise known for its dominance in the NFL, are facing a challenging crossroads as they try to balance short-term fixes and long-term aspirations. As the season continues, two key issues have emerged that could significantly impact the Chiefs’ path to another championship: their underperforming rushing attack and Travis Kelce’s apparent decline.

While the team remains in the hunt for the title, internal conversations are heating up, with leadership looking at immediate solutions to address these concerns. The Chiefs, under the guidance of head coach Andy Reid and with stars like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce leading the charge, are facing pressure like never before. Here’s a breakdown of the most pressing issues and the potential moves Kansas City may make in the coming weeks.

The Rushing Game Crisis

The Chiefs’ ground game has quickly become their biggest vulnerability. In a season where the team was expected to dominate, the lack of a reliable rushing attack has forced Patrick Mahomes to carry the weight of the offense on his shoulders. Through the first few games, Mahomes himself leads the team in rushing yards — not due to designed quarterback runs, but scrambles resulting from broken plays and the absence of a viable running back threat.

With just 123 rushing yards, Mahomes’ scrambling highlights the urgent need for a more dynamic ground game. Opposing defenses have been able to stack coverage against the passing game, knowing that the Chiefs’ rushing attack is virtually nonexistent. This imbalance puts immense pressure on Mahomes, increasing his risk of injury while stunting the team’s offensive rhythm.

Enter Jerome Ford: A Potential Fix for the Chiefs’ Running Game?

The Chiefs front office has reportedly been in trade discussions, with one name consistently coming up: Jerome Ford from the Cleveland Browns. Ford, a third-year running back, could offer the Chiefs exactly what they need: a proven NFL playmaker with breakaway speed and a consistent ability to make plays.

Ford has posted impressive stats in his career, including 1,429 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. His 2024 campaign alone saw him rack up 813 yards and four touchdowns, making him a valuable asset in a backfield that currently lacks a difference-maker. His breakaway speed could give the Chiefs the explosive plays they’re missing and provide Mahomes with the necessary support in the ground game.

However, Ford’s status in Cleveland is uncertain. Despite his solid production, the emergence of rookie Quinn Shawn Judkins has pushed Ford down the depth chart. With just eight carries for 18 yards this season, Ford’s role in the Browns’ offense has been drastically reduced, leaving his future in Cleveland in question.

For Kansas City, acquiring Ford could provide an immediate upgrade, allowing offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy to work with a more balanced offense. This trade would not only strengthen the Chiefs’ run game but could also set up better play-action opportunities for Mahomes.

Travis Kelce: A Diminishing Threat?

Along with the ground game issues, the Chiefs are also grappling with concerns about Travis Kelce’s effectiveness. The star tight end has been a fixture in Kansas City’s offense for years, and his chemistry with Mahomes is unmatched. However, age and a possible decline in his abilities are starting to show. Kelce’s sluggish movement and decreased separation ability have altered the Chiefs’ offensive rhythm.

For a team with championship aspirations, these concerns cannot be ignored. The timing of Kelce’s struggles coincides poorly with the Chiefs’ competitive window. Kansas City could soon find itself in need of a successor at tight end, forcing uncomfortable conversations about replacing a future Hall of Famer while still competing at the highest level.

Is Cole Kmet the Answer for Kansas City?

Enter Cole Kmet, the Chicago Bears’ standout tight end, who could provide an immediate fix for the Chiefs’ issues at the position. Kmet has been a consistent and reliable target, even within an offense that has struggled to maximize his talents. Over his career, Kmet has posted solid numbers, including 7,268 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns, alongside a 74.8% reception rate.

His experience and productivity could provide the Chiefs with the kind of reliability they’re missing in the tight end spot. While Kmet is not the flashy, game-changing player Kelce once was, he could step into a system where his skills would complement Mahomes’ playmaking ability.

Chicago’s investment in a younger tight end, Colester Lovelin, makes Kmet expendable, creating an opportunity for Kansas City to trade for him. A move for Kmet would give the Chiefs a short-term solution while providing stability at tight end for the future.

Kansas City’s Financial Situation: Will They Make the Move?

While these trade scenarios are intriguing, the Chiefs’ financial situation complicates matters. Kansas City is currently facing salary cap pressure, with approximately $1 million over the projected limit for 2025. With free agency on the horizon, the Chiefs must make careful decisions to maintain roster flexibility while staying competitive.

One potential avenue to ease this pressure is restructuring Patrick Mahomes’ contract. By converting a large portion of his $66.258 million cap hit into a restructuring bonus, the Chiefs could create nearly $39 million in cap relief. This move would provide Kansas City with the financial flexibility they need to make a trade or restructure contracts without sacrificing long-term success.

Travis Kelce’s future also plays a pivotal role in the team’s financial outlook. If Kelce retires or accepts a trade, the Chiefs would save over $17 million in cap space. If he stays, restructuring his contract could generate additional room, allowing Kansas City to make necessary moves.

Roster Moves and Future Decisions

Kansas City’s defense also faces challenges, particularly with depth along the defensive line. With the release of Mike Pennel and injury concerns surrounding Omar Norman-Lott, the Chiefs may look to add interior help. Defensive tackle Mazy Smith from the Dallas Cowboys is one name to watch. Smith has underperformed but could benefit from a change in environment, and his youth makes him an intriguing option for Kansas City’s coaching staff.

On the offensive line, concerns about the performance of second-year lineman Kingsley Sumataya could prompt the Chiefs to make a move for additional depth, especially with the Titans struggling with offensive line play. A trade for backup tackle Wanya Morris could provide Kansas City with a reliable option to stabilize the line while developing younger talent.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Kansas City

The Chiefs stand at a crossroads. With glaring issues in both the rushing game and tight end position, the team must make strategic decisions to preserve its championship hopes. The front office will be working overtime to address these concerns while maintaining the team’s financial flexibility. How the Chiefs respond to these challenges will determine the trajectory of their season and their ability to remain a dominant force in the NFL. Will they make the right moves, or will uncertainty and injuries derail their title chase? The answers lie ahead.