Bridging the Gas: Key Free Agents the Chiefs Could Pursue After Final Training Camp Session
The Kansas City Chiefs wrapped up their 19th and final training camp session on Thursday at Missouri State University in St. Joseph, setting the stage for their second preseason game scheduled for a 3 p.m. kickoff this Saturday. The defending Super Bowl champions are poised to kick off their 2024 campaign with a highly anticipated rematch against the Baltimore Ravens, a clash echoing last year’s thrilling AFC Championship showdown set for September 6th. As the Chiefs prepare for their season opener, significant questions linger about pieces in the lineup, with key gaps still to be addressed. To help fortify the roster and enhance their championship defense, I’ve identified three veteran free agents who could make a substantial impact and potentially bridge the remaining gaps for Kansas City.
JuJu Smith-Schuster
Marquise "Hollywood" Brown's injury, though not as severe as his dramatic exit from the field might suggest, still leaves uncertainty about his readiness for Week One. Rather than relying on the possibility of an early recovery—which could risk setbacks—the defending champions might consider adding a familiar face to their roster. Enter JuJu Smith-Schuster, a 27-year-old receiver recently cut by the New England Patriots. Smith-Schuster has struggled with consistency across his various team stints, but he brings valuable rapport with the Chiefs' coaching staff and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. During his 11 games with New England, Smith-Schuster recorded only 29 receptions for 260 yards and one touchdown. It's worth noting that the Patriots are in the midst of a major roster overhaul, with Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe now serving as backups. Previously, with the Kansas City Chiefs, Smith-Schuster came close to surpassing 1,000 receiving yards in a season and played a key role in their 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. While it's uncertain how much impact he might have, he could serve as a useful insurance policy for the injured Brown and help address the current lack of depth at receiver. Provided he was cut from a roster without a reliable starting wideout, the price tag should be pennies to the dollar.
David Bakhtiari
David Bakhtiari has been beset by a series of injuries that have kept him out of 42 games since 2020. Nevertheless, he remains a highly effective left tackle, evidenced by his flawless performance in his lone start against the Chicago Bears last season. A three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, Bakhtiari is widely regarded as one of the most skilled pass protectors of his generation. There was significant speculation that Bakhtiari might reunite with Aaron Rodgers in New York. However, the Jets opted to address their protection issues by signing Tyron Smith in free agency and selecting Olu Fashanu in the draft. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs have parted ways with the inconsistent Donovan Smith and have recently endured injuries to Wanya Morris and Jawaan Taylor, leaving their depth at left tackle critically thin. Bakhtiari's extensive injury history is a notable concern, but it also suggests that the Chiefs might be able to acquire him at a cost-effective price.
Stephon Gilmore
The departure of L'Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans has revealed a significant deficiency in the Kansas City Chiefs cornerback depth, prompting numerous media analysts to recommend that the team consider available free agents. During training camp, the Chiefs have experimented with various defensive alignments, including adjustments involving Joshua Williams while Jaylen Watson and Nazeeh Johnson have been in and out of the mix with injuries. Although no reports have identified a convincing in-house replacement for Sneed, meaning the Chiefs may be in the market for a cornerback pairing. In early July, Bleacher Report columnist Kristopher Knox posited that Stephon Gilmore could be an invaluable asset for the Chiefs. Although Gilmore, who will turn 34 at the start of the season, is unlikely to regain his peak Defensive Player of the Year form, he could effectively fill the vacant cornerback position. Pro Football Focus has rated Gilmore as a top-25 corner, awarding him a 76.3 grade across 190 snaps. While his interception numbers have declined in recent seasons, Gilmore has still forced nine incompletions and made six stops, allowing just 311 yards over 17 games. His proven productivity in various defensive schemes, combined with his clean bill of health, makes him a dependable and attractive free-agency target. His experience and potential to function effectively in the Chiefs' secondary render him a compelling option for the team.
