The Kansas City Chiefs are heading into the 2025 NFL season with a lot to prove, especially after their Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last month. One of the biggest takeaways from that game? The glaring weaknesses in their offensive line. When the stakes were at their highest, the unit simply couldn't hold up, and that’s something general manager Brett Veach is undoubtedly looking to fix in the coming months.
Now, here's where things get really interesting: despite the struggles on the field, Kansas City actually leads the entire NFL in offensive line spending. Yes, you read that right! According to Josh Norris of Underdog Fantasy, the Chiefs have invested more in their O-line than any other team in the league. So, if money isn’t the issue, what is? That’s the puzzle Veach will need to solve this offseason.
The Chiefs have never been shy about making bold moves when necessary. Over the past few seasons, they’ve been incredibly creative in addressing their roster needs, whether through free agency or the NFL Draft. But given their significant financial commitments to the offensive line already, this offseason will require a much more calculated approach. They need to make sure that whatever moves they make actually yield results on the field. Otherwise, they'll find themselves in the same frustrating position come next season.
So, what’s the game plan? Will the Chiefs dive into free agency, targeting established veterans to shore up the weaknesses in their front five? Or will Veach put his faith in the draft, hoping to land young, talented linemen who can step up immediately? It’s a tough call, and both options have their risks and rewards.
Breaking Down the Chiefs' Options:
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Free Agency Fixes – Going after veteran linemen can provide immediate help, but it comes at a high cost. Considering they already lead the league in O-line spending, adding more big contracts might not be the wisest financial move.
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Drafting for the Future – The Chiefs could opt to bring in fresh talent through the draft, which offers a more budget-friendly solution. However, relying on rookies means there's always a learning curve, and it’s uncertain if they’ll be able to make an instant impact.
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Internal Development – Another possibility is that the Chiefs focus on improving their existing linemen. Coaching, better chemistry, and strategic adjustments could go a long way in boosting the unit’s performance without making drastic roster changes.
One thing is for sure: Kansas City can’t afford to sit back and hope things improve on their own. The NFL is too competitive, and with teams like the Eagles proving they have what it takes to exploit weaknesses, the Chiefs need to be proactive.
The challenge ahead isn’t just about fixing the offensive line—it’s about keeping the entire team in Super Bowl contention. Patrick Mahomes, the franchise’s biggest asset, needs better protection to perform at his best. If the Chiefs fail to reinforce the line, it could impact the offense as a whole, affecting everything from the running game to Mahomes' ability to extend plays.
What makes this situation even trickier is that Kansas City isn’t just looking to tweak things—they need real, impactful upgrades. The question is: where do they find those game-changing players? Free agency offers proven talent, but at a premium price. The draft offers potential stars, but there’s always uncertainty about how quickly they’ll develop. Finding the right balance will be key to ensuring the Chiefs don’t take a step back next season.
Why This Offseason is Pivotal
The Chiefs are at a crossroads. They’ve already proven they can reach the big game, but staying on top in the NFL requires constant evolution. If they can’t solidify their offensive line, they risk falling behind their AFC rivals, many of whom are aggressively building their rosters to dethrone Kansas City.
Here’s what makes this situation even more compelling: despite their issues, the Chiefs are still one of the most dangerous teams in the league. They have a generational talent in Mahomes, an elite coach in Andy Reid, and a front office that has shown time and time again that it knows how to build a championship-caliber squad. The pressure is on, but if there’s any team capable of bouncing back, it’s the Kansas City Chiefs.
Final Thoughts
The coming weeks will be crucial. Fans will be eagerly watching as Brett Veach and the Chiefs’ front office decide how to tackle their biggest challenge. Will they make a splash in free agency? Will they find the next great lineman in the draft? Or will they take an entirely different approach?
One thing is certain—Kansas City won’t go down without a fight. The Chiefs have built their legacy on resilience and smart decision-making. Now, it's time to see if they can once again outmaneuver the competition and make another run at the Super Bowl.
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