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Chiefs Seek Top Free Agents to Bolster Roster
Kansas City looks to reload after disappointing 2025 season
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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The Kansas City Chiefs are looking to bounce back after a lackluster 2025 season that exposed weaknesses in their roster. With limited cap space, the team will have to be strategic in free agency to find the right pieces to complement Patrick Mahomes and keep the Chiefs competitive in the AFC. The top targets appear to be wide receiver Mike Evans, running back Travis Etienne, and cornerback Jaylen Watson.
Why it matters
The Chiefs have been a dominant force in the NFL in recent years, winning two Super Bowls. However, their struggles in 2025 showed that the roster has holes that need to be addressed. Signing the right free agents could help the team return to championship contention and keep their championship window open with Mahomes at quarterback.
The details
The Chiefs have cleared out around $24 million in cap space after trading Trent McDuffie and releasing Jawaan Taylor. This gives them some flexibility to pursue top free agents, though they'll have to be selective. Wide receiver Mike Evans could provide the team a true #1 option in the passing game, while running back Travis Etienne would add much-needed explosiveness to the backfield. On defense, retaining cornerback Jaylen Watson is crucial after the trade of McDuffie.
- The 2026 NFL free agency period begins on March 13, 2026.
The players
Mike Evans
A veteran wide receiver who could provide the Chiefs a true #1 option in the passing game after the departure of Tyreek Hill.
Travis Etienne
A dynamic running back who could add much-needed explosiveness to the Chiefs' backfield after their run game struggled in 2025.
Jaylen Watson
A cornerback who has been an integral part of the Chiefs' defense and would help stabilize the secondary after the trade of Trent McDuffie.
What’s next
The Chiefs will need to move quickly to sign their top free agent targets once the new league year begins on March 13, 2026.
The takeaway
The Chiefs' struggles in 2025 exposed weaknesses that need to be addressed through strategic free agent signings. Bringing in impact players like Mike Evans, Travis Etienne, and retaining Jaylen Watson could help the team return to championship contention and keep their Super Bowl window open with Patrick Mahomes at the helm.
