The Kansas City Chiefs have seen a bitter end to their season, which culminated with a six-game losing streak that included a season finale loss to the NFL’s worst team, the Las Vegas Raiders.
There is more difficulty ahead, with the Chiefs facing several tough roster decisions. One of those includes defensive back Jaylen Watson, who is headed to free agency with the conclusion of his rookie contract and may be ready to say goodbye.
Jaylen Watson’s Message to Fans
After the team’s 14-12 loss to the Raiders on Sunday, Watson took to social media to share a cryptic message that appeared to point to his exit from Kansas City. Watson thanked fans for their support, noting his journey from seventh-round pick to Super Bowl champion.
“Dear CHIEFS KINGDOM, if this is the last ride I truly thank you for all the passion and support you’ve showed over the past 4 years. The best 4 years of my life,” Watson shared in a post on Instagram. “From a 7th round draft pick out of Augusta, Ga I felt welcomed since the first day I walked in the building. Never in a million years I could’ve imagined being a 2x Sb champ. To playing in arrowhead in front of the best fans in the world. Through the good years and bad you guys were always there 100 degrees or -30.”
Watson added a message to his teammates saying he would remember them fondly, a stronger hint that he may not return to the Chiefs next season.
“To all my teammates that became brothers thank you for showing us young bulls the way to come in and be a real professional,” Watson wrote. “So many memories will forever be embedded and I will cherish those moments forever thank you CHIEFS KINGDOM.”
Jaylen Watson Predicted to Jump to AFC South
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox predicted that Watson is done in Kansas City, saying the team won’t have the money to meet his new asking price.
“With a $39.7 million projected cap deficit, the Chiefs may not be able to bring back top free agents like 27-year-old cornerback Jaylen Watson,” Knox wrote. “Watson has dealt with injuries over the past two years. He suffered a broken fibula in 2024 and was recently placed on injured reserve with a groin injury. However, the 2022 seventh-round pick has been a dependable starter when healthy.”
Knox added that Watson could have strong interest from the Tennessee Titans, who are rebuilding their defense.
“Watson should draw strong interest on the open market, even if he isn’t the most notable cornerback available—Riq Woolen, Greg Newsome II, and Alontae Taylor are arguably bigger names,” Knox wrote. “Don’t be surprised if the Tennessee Titans make a strong push to land him.”
Watson would have the chance to be a top cornerback in Tennessee if he lands there, Knox wrote.
“The Titans need an influx of talent and are projected to have the third-most cap space in the league in 2026. They could also use corner help to bolster a defense ranked 29th in net yards per pass attempt allowed,” he wrote.
Chiefs DB Turns Heads With Cryptic Post as Free Agency Looms