The Kansas City Chiefs organization, and its fans, don’t need to be afraid to admit that their dynasty run is over.
It’s understandable why they would be. Nobody wants the ride to end, and we all remember how cursed the franchise was before Patrick Mahomes took over at quarterback. However, as the New England Patriots were when Tom Brady was their signal-caller, the Chiefs are uniquely set up to quickly re-establish themselves as a powerhouse.
Kansas City became a dynasty in 2023 by winning its third Super Bowl in a five-year span. One of the biggest factors that paved the way for the Chiefs winning multiple championships was their decision to trade star wide receiver Tyreek Hill to the Miami Dolphins while he was still at the peak of his game following the 2021 season.
That move paid off in a huge way, giving the Chiefs an influx of draft picks, and allowing them to pay the likes of defensive tackle Chris Jones, center Creed Humphrey, and tight end Travis Kelce. Following a disappointing 2025 campaign in which Kansas City posted a 6-11 record, the need to revamp the roster again is painfully apparent, and must be done by making two bold decisions.
Kansas City Chiefs Should Trade CB Trent McDuffie
GettyTrent McDuffie of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on after his team’s 27-19 victory against the Houston Texans
The Chiefs selected McDuffie in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. They traded the first-round pick that they received for Hill to the Patriots in order to move up and snag McDuffie at No. 21 overall. McDuffie has gone on to be a two-time All-Pro selection. He is one of the most versatile cornerbacks in the league, as he can play in the slot or out on the boundary at an elite level.
While it would be nice to keep McDuffie long-term, Kansas City is currently $66 million over the salary cap, per Over the Cap. Handing out another huge contract just isn’t feasible for the Chiefs right now. Fortunately, they have impressive, young talent at the cornerback position in Nohl Williams, Kristian Fulton, and Kevin Knowles. There’s also Jaylen Watson, who is heading toward free agency in March, but could be re-signed for much cheaper than McDuffie.
Chiefs Should Trade DT Chris Jones
GettyChris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs walks during a timeout during the third quarter against the Houston Texans in the Divisional round playoff.
This would be a trickier move for Kansas City to pull off, but it’s not impossible. The first step would be finding a trade partner willing to take on Jones’ large contract, which is due to cost the Chiefs over $44 million in 2026. However, Jones is still playing at a high level and should have suitors if put on the trade block.
If the Chiefs do trade Jones, they would arguably have the worst defensive line in the NFL. However, it isn’t that great even with Jones, and with the picks they would have from dealing both him and McDuffie, the Chiefs would be positioned well to rebuild the unit. Jones will be 32 at the start of next season, and a decline in performance could be imminent. Getting out in front of that now during this crucial time of transition would be wise for Kansas City.
Chiefs’ Dynasty Is Over, but a 2nd Could Come Quickly With 2 Bold Decisions