Chiefs Lock In Two Rookie Playmakers: Jeffrey Bassa and Brashard Smith Sign with Kansas City
Kansas City is wasting no time gearing up for the 2025 NFL season. Fresh off an action-packed draft, the reigning AFC powerhouse is already inking deals with its newest additions. On Monday, May 5, the Kansas City Chiefs officially announced the signing of two of their 2025 draft picks: linebacker Jeffrey Bassa and running back Brashard Smith. Both rookies bring a ton of potential and could very well shake up the depth chart by the time training camp rolls around.
The signings were first reported by veteran NFL insider Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 in Houston. While the details of the contracts haven't been released yet—Wilson didn’t spill the numbers—it’s safe to say these rookie deals won’t be giving the Chiefs’ front office any salary cap headaches.
Let’s break it down a bit, because these two guys are more than just names on a draft board. They're potential sparks in Kansas City's ever-evolving playbook.
🔥 Who Is Jeffrey Bassa?
If you followed college football last season, you probably heard the name Jeffrey Bassa echo through Pac-12 highlight reels. A fifth-round pick out of the University of Oregon, Bassa was a defensive standout for the Ducks. He’s not just your average linebacker. He’s fast, reads plays like a chess master, and hits with purpose.
What makes Bassa intriguing is his versatility. At Oregon, he was used all over the field—inside linebacker, outside linebacker, even occasionally dropping into coverage like a safety. That kind of flexibility is gold in today’s NFL, especially with defensive schemes becoming more complex and hybrid-heavy.
Don’t be surprised if Bassa turns some heads in training camp. He’s one of those guys who doesn’t just play with fire—he brings the whole flamethrower.
🏈 Brashard Smith: A Seventh-Round Steal?
Drafted in the seventh round out of Southern Methodist University (SMU), Brashard Smith might just be one of the sleeper picks of this year’s draft. Quick on his feet with elite change-of-direction speed, Smith has that twitchy explosiveness that coaches drool over.
Kansas City has always been good at finding running back talent late in the draft or even in undrafted free agency. Just look at the rise of guys like Isiah Pacheco. Smith could be next in line.
At SMU, Smith made a name for himself not just as a runner but also as a reliable pass-catcher out of the backfield. That dual-threat ability could fit perfectly in Andy Reid’s offensive system, which thrives on mismatches and versatility.
🚨 What’s Next for the Chiefs?
Now that Bassa and Smith are officially on board, Kansas City’s front office is expected to focus on wrapping up deals with the rest of their 2025 rookie class. With offseason workouts getting into full swing and rookie minicamp just around the corner, timing is everything.
Signing rookies quickly allows coaches to get them involved early, and every rep counts when you're fighting for a spot on one of the league’s most competitive rosters. After all, this is a team with championship expectations—again.
🧠 Chiefs' Front Office Playing It Smart
The Kansas City brass continues to show why they’re one of the sharpest front offices in the NFL. Signing mid-to-late-round picks like Bassa and Smith early helps maintain momentum after the draft and minimizes distractions. It also signals trust in their scouting department—these aren’t just roster-fillers; they’re players with real upside.
Neither contract is expected to break the bank. With the rookie wage scale in place, these are budget-friendly deals, allowing the Chiefs to manage the salary cap effectively while still adding depth and talent.
💡 Why These Signings Matter
Let’s not underestimate the importance of locking in rookies early. These young players bring fresh energy and new perspectives, which can reinvigorate even the most veteran-laden locker room. Plus, they can contribute on special teams right away, which is often where hidden gems are found in the NFL.
And in a league where injuries are inevitable, having quality depth is non-negotiable. Bassa could see rotational snaps on defense, and Smith could very well carve out a niche as a third-down back or special teams ace. Every team needs those glue guys who show up when it counts, and these two rookies might just be that for KC.
🏆 Eyes on the Prize
Let’s not forget—the Chiefs aren’t rebuilding. They’re reloading. After another deep playoff run last season, the expectations in Kansas City are as high as ever. The addition of young talent like Bassa and Smith is part of the plan to stay competitive, not just this season but for years to come.
Coach Andy Reid and GM Brett Veach know the window is still wide open. With Patrick Mahomes under center and Travis Kelce still doing his thing, the core is solid. Now it’s about finding the right role players to support that engine.
🚀 What to Watch Moving Forward
Here are a few key things Chiefs fans should keep an eye on:
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Rookie Minicamp: Watch how Bassa and Smith perform early. These sessions often indicate how ready a player is to contribute.
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Depth Chart Shuffling: Will either of these rookies push for a spot higher up the pecking order?
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Special Teams Impact: This is often the gateway for rookies to make their mark.
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Remaining Rookie Signings: Who’s next to put pen to paper?
Final Word
The Kansas City Chiefs are once again playing the long game—and playing it well. By locking in Jeffrey Bassa and Brashard Smith early, they’re laying the groundwork for another potential Super Bowl run. These aren’t just contracts; they’re investments in the next chapter of Chiefs football.
So, Chiefs Kingdom, get excited. Two new faces just joined the squad, and they’re bringing speed, skill, and swagger with them. Keep your eyes peeled—2025 is shaping up to be one wild ride.
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