So, here we are. The Chiefs are sitting pretty with a 15-1 record, aiming for that third straight Super Bowl. It’s like living in a golden era—or maybe we’re all just spoiled now. But, as much as 2025 looks promising for another title, it’s also shaping up as a bittersweet turning point. Why? Because several key players (and maybe a few not-so-key ones) are probably packing their bags.
Here’s the deal: The Chiefs have 18 unrestricted free agents and just $21.3 million in cap space. Some tough calls are coming. Let’s dive into the five players most likely to say goodbye, and why their departures might matter more than we think.
1. Nick Bolton, LB
Oh, Nick Bolton. This guy has been a wrecking ball—when he’s healthy. After missing nine games in 2023, he’s come roaring back with a career year. Six defended passes, three sacks, an interception, and a forced fumble? Not bad for someone still under 25. His Pro Football Focus grades are solid, too, hovering in the upper-half range for linebackers.
But here’s the kicker: Bolton’s rookie contract is up, and other teams with fat wallets are drooling. The Chiefs? They’re a little cash-strapped, and keeping Bolton might mean sacrificing depth elsewhere. Losing him could leave a gaping hole in the defense, but hey, it’s not like Veach hasn’t pulled off miracles before. Right?
2. Justin Watson, WR
Let’s not sugarcoat it: Justin Watson has been… fine. Serviceable. A warm body in the wide receiver corps. Sure, he had that 60-yard game in Week 17, but let’s not kid ourselves—it was the highlight of an otherwise forgettable season. Nine games with one or zero catches? Yikes.
The Chiefs’ WR room is due for an overhaul, and Watson’s 30th birthday is looming. With younger, faster, maybe even taller guys available in the draft or free agency, it’s hard to imagine Watson sticking around. No shade, though—he’s been a good locker-room guy. But good vibes don’t win games.
3. Samaje Perine, RB
Remember when Samaje Perine was supposed to be just depth? Then Pacheco broke his leg, and Perine stepped in like a true pro. He’s been a solid pass-catcher with 309 receiving yards and a touchdown, but let’s face it: He’s not the future. Pacheco’s back now, and the Chiefs have their eyes on younger talent.
If GM Brett Veach wants to shake things up, maybe a reunion with Kareem Hunt is in the cards. Perine is dependable, but dependable doesn’t always equal indispensable. Unless he suddenly goes beast mode in the playoffs, don’t bet on him sticking around.
4. Derrick Nnadi, DT
Oh, Derrick. It’s been real, but man, this season has not been kind to you. Three solo tackles in 16 games? A 39.5 PFF run defense grade? Even I cringed typing that. Nnadi’s playing time has plummeted, and at 28, he’s not exactly on the upswing.
The Chiefs need younger, faster, stronger players up front. Nnadi’s expiring contract is the perfect excuse to cut ties. It’s not personal; it’s just business. Well, maybe it’s a little personal when you’re only seeing 17% of defensive snaps.
5. JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR
Ah, JuJu. The man, the myth, the TikTok star turned Super Bowl hero. His 2022 season with the Chiefs was solid, but his return in 2024 has been… underwhelming. With just 17 catches for 227 yards and two touchdowns, it’s clear that Mahomes isn’t feeling the JuJu anymore. (Pun absolutely intended.)
At this point, JuJu is a nostalgia play, and the Chiefs aren’t running a charity. They need receivers who can keep up with the league’s best. Unfortunately, JuJu just isn’t that guy anymore. Expect him to find a new home—maybe one where his social media presence gets more targets than he does.
Why It Matters
Losing these five players won’t break the Chiefs, but it will test their depth and ability to pivot. Bolton’s departure would sting the most, but the Chiefs’ front office has a knack for finding diamonds in the rough. As for the others? Well, some churn is necessary to stay competitive.
The New Year will bring new challenges, new faces, and hopefully, another parade down Grand Boulevard. But for now, let’s take a moment to appreciate these players—even if their time in Kansas City is ticking away.