The Kansas City Chiefs are facing significant roster changes following their recent loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, marking the end of their hopes for a three-peat. The Eagles, boasting formidable talent, managed to blow out the Chiefs, leaving Kansas City to re-evaluate its roster during the upcoming offseason.
This offseason will be particularly challenging as the Chiefs navigate through free agency with many key players set to hit the market. According to Spotrac, the Chiefs are projected to have only $15.7 million in salary cap space available for the 2025 season. To create financial flexibility, Kansas City might restructure existing contracts, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes' unprecedented 10-year, $450 million agreement, which has been modified several times to allow for additional cap space.
Chiefs general manager Brett Veach will need to make some tough decisions with several players likely to depart. Among the notable free agents is running back Samaje Perine, who joined the team as a third-down back but struggled throughout the season. Perine finished the year with just 414 total yards and two touchdowns. His future with the team is uncertain, as noted by FanSided's Kinnu Singh, who pointed out, "Kansas City needs to evaluate their backfield this offseason, but running back Samaje Perine is unlikely to be a priority." At nearly 30 years old, running backs often face dwindling opportunities as teams start to seek younger talent.
Mecole Hardman is another player whose return seems doubtful. Once highly regarded following his draft, Hardman never reached the reliability expected of him. His inability to secure consistent playing time during the 2024 season puts him on thin ice heading forward.
Defensive end Charles Omenihu’s future is also precarious. After suffering from injuries throughout the season, he logged minimal stats and his performance was markedly lower than prior years where he recorded seven sacks and two forced fumbles. The Chiefs have choices to make on their defensive line as they may need to prioritize other contracts over Omenihu's.
Wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster made some impactful plays during the season but again finds his status uncertain. Having been previously signed to return after spending time with the New England Patriots, he might not be needed if the Chiefs opt to retain Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, another free agent before the draft. Mahomes is reportedly pushing for this retention, indicating it could lead to Smith-Schuster's exit.
Meanwhile, right guard Trey Smith, drafted late, appears to be on the brink of receiving financial recognition, projected to earn around $78.8 million over four years according to Spotrac. The scarcity of quality offensive linemen raises anticipation for how Kansas City will address Smith's contract status as 27.08% of their overall cap is already devoted to the offensive line.
There is also the return of veteran Kareem Hunt, who rejoined the Chiefs after Isiah Pacheco's injury early on. Although Hunt brought experience and skill during his time, rising age and reduced explosiveness may hinder his return to form. Interestingly, Hunt’s impressive record—200 carries for 728 yards and seven touchdowns—speaks to his capability, but as he approaches his 30th birthday, his future is uncertain.
The Chiefs will soon need to solidify their roster as they look toward the next season. Given the combination of limited salary cap flexibility and significant player turnover expected, fans and analysts alike wonder how this will re-shape the team dynamic. With lean years looming, the franchise faces the reality of needing to rebuild its core once again. The arrival of fresh talent through draft picks is also on the horizon as the team searches for the right mix to regain their Super Bowl-winning form.