Kansas City Chiefs restructure contracts; make free agency moves
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. -- The Kansas City Chiefs have been active this offseason, making critical moves to try and keep their roster up to par for a Super Bowl return. Their latest efforts have centered around restructuring contracts, opening up the salary cap to remain competitive in free agency.
Those restructured included quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones, freeing up approximately $49.4 million in cap space. This marks the fourth time Mahomes has adjusted his deal since signing his record-breaking 10-year, $450 million contract in 2020.
Jones, who inked a five-year, $158.75 million extension last year, also agreed to adjust his contract. These restructures are designed to push cap hits into future seasons while ensuring both players receive guaranteed money through signing bonuses.
Now, with the extra cap space, the Chiefs ensured stability in several key positions. They placed the franchise tag on offensive guard Trey Smith, locking him in for at least another year. The team also secured deals with linebacker Nick Bolton and wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown. Additionally, the Chiefs re-signed long snapper James Winchester, keeping their special teams unit intact.
Kansas City didn’t just focus on retaining talent, they also made several additions. Former San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Jaylon Moore signed a two-year, $30 million deal, bringing much-needed depth to an offensive line that struggled in last season’s Super Bowl loss.
In the secondary, the Chiefs brought in cornerback Kristian Fulton from the Los Angeles Chargers. Fulton, known for his physical coverage style, should provide valuable support to the defensive backfield.
On the offensive side, Kansas City added former Minnesota Vikings tight end Robert Tonyan, giving Mahomes another red-zone threat behind star tight end Travis Kelce. The team also picked up running back Elijah Mitchell, another former 49er, adding depth to a backfield that has relied heavily on Isiah Pacheco.
While the Chiefs have been aggressive in re-signing and adding players, they have also experienced some departures. Veteran left guard Joe Thuney was traded to the Chicago Bears in a move to manage cap space. Additionally, safety Justin Reid left in free agency, signing a three-year, $31 million deal with the New Orleans Saints.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Chiefs remain focused on defending their title and sustaining their dominance in the AFC. With Mahomes at the helm and key roster upgrades, Kansas City is once again positioning itself as a championship contender.
