Chiefs Reportedly Eyeing Veteran QB, Retaining Key Linebacker in Free Agency

Kansas City looks to shore up depth at quarterback and retain a key defensive piece.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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According to NFL analyst Greg Auman, the Kansas City Chiefs are expected to pursue veteran quarterback Russell Wilson in free agency as a potential backup option for Patrick Mahomes, who is rehabbing from an ACL tear. The team is also predicted to re-sign linebacker Leo Chenal, who has been a valuable contributor on defense over the past four seasons.

Why it matters

The Chiefs are facing uncertainty at quarterback with Mahomes' injury, so adding an experienced veteran like Wilson could provide valuable insurance and depth. Retaining Chenal, a solid run-stopper and improving pass-rusher, would also help maintain continuity on the Chiefs' defense as they look to bounce back from a down 2025 season.

The details

Wilson, 37, has seen his play decline in recent years, going from a $40 million starter in Denver to barely playing for the Giants last season. However, he could still provide a capable bridge option for the Chiefs if Mahomes isn't ready to start the 2026 season. Meanwhile, Chenal, 25, has been a consistent contributor for the Chiefs' defense, averaging 55 tackles per year and providing valuable experience with three Super Bowl appearances.

  • The Chiefs are roughly $54 million over the salary cap entering the offseason.

The players

Russell Wilson

A 37-year-old veteran quarterback who has fallen on hard times in recent years, going from a $40 million starter in Denver to barely playing for the Giants last season.

Leo Chenal

A 25-year-old linebacker who has been a valuable contributor for the Chiefs' defense over the past four seasons, averaging 55 tackles per year and providing valuable experience with three Super Bowl appearances.

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What they’re saying

“Wilson, 37, has fallen hard over the last three years, going from a $40 million starter in Denver to barely playing on a bad Giants team. He went 0-3 as a New York starter, and after making $10 million this past season, he might draw half that. His best scenario is likely a bridge starter who goes to a team with a young starter so they don't have to rush him.”

— Greg Auman, NFL Writer (FOX Sports)

“Chenal, 25, isn't an every-down linebacker, but he's stout against the run and improving as a pass-rusher. He's totaled seven sacks in four years under Steve Spagnuolo and averaged 55 tackles a year. Would another defense try to develop his coverage skills to make him someone who doesn't have to come off the field in nickel or obvious passing situations? He's had a tackle for loss in three different Super Bowls, so his experience doesn't hurt if you're trying to create a playoff culture in the locker room.”

— Greg Auman, NFL Writer (FOX Sports)

What’s next

The Chiefs will need to navigate the salary cap in order to sign both Wilson and Chenal, as they are currently $54 million over the cap entering the offseason.

The takeaway

The Chiefs are taking a pragmatic approach to free agency, looking to add veteran depth at quarterback while also retaining a key defensive contributor in Chenal. These moves could help stabilize the roster as the team looks to bounce back from a down 2025 season and support Patrick Mahomes' recovery from injury.