Chiefs Expected To Target Defense, Offensive Line At Trade Deadline
The Kansas City Chiefs are likely to pursue defensive additions or offensive line help before the Nov. 4 NFL trade deadline rather than skill position players, according to ESPN\'s Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler. The team\'s typical deadline activity may focus on edge rushers or interior defensive linemen despite previous years\' emphasis on receivers.
Graziano reported the Chiefs appear satisfied with their receiving corps and running back depth assuming everyone stays healthy. Rookie tackle Josh Simmons\' unclear status and recent offensive line injuries could shift priorities, particularly if guard Trey Smith\'s back injury requires extended absence.
\"If the Chiefs add at the deadline, I expect it to be on defense -- maybe a veteran edge rusher -- or possibly the offensive line,\" Graziano wrote.
Smith and right tackle Jawaan Taylor left Sunday\'s game against the Las Vegas Raiders with injuries. The injuries appear minor, but Smith\'s back issue could create problems for an offense gaining momentum. No one noticed the absences due to Kansas City\'s dominant performance.
The receiving corps performed as planned Sunday with Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy and Hollywood Brown combining for 18 of 34 passing targets. Rice alone drew 10 targets in the victory.
Fowler noted Kansas City could add defensive linemen due to interior depletion. The Chiefs previously acquired edge rusher Melvin Ingram at the 2021 deadline, establishing precedent for such moves.
\"I do think the Chiefs could add defensive linemen,\" Fowler wrote. \"They are depleted on the interior.\"
The cornerback room warrants attention entering the deadline. Free agent addition Kristian Fulton has been a healthy scratch, raising questions about his two-year, $20 million contract. Rookie Nohl Williams is emerging while fourth-year player Joshua Williams could hold trade value.
Running back Isiah Pacheco is gaining momentum with 108 yards on 27 carries over two weeks. Rookie Brashard Smith\'s workload continues increasing gradually.