The Chiefs enter the offseason with fifteen total free agents, seven of which are on the offensive side of the ball. With former offensive coordinator Matt Nagy already taking the head coaching job in Chicago, and assistant Brad Childress planning to retire, there is already a handful of changes taking place in Kansas City. Add in the fact the Chiefs are planning to shop Alex Smith and give the reigns to Patrick Mahomes next season, every move seems extremely essential for the immediate future. Today we play general manager and decide which offensive free agents the Chiefs should keep or sweep.
Keep:
Albert Wilson
Despite only being 25 years old, Wilson was the Chiefs eldest wide receiver this season. Wilson enjoyed his best season in 2017, surpassing five hundred receiving yards for the first time in his career and had a reception in all but one game. Due to depth and youth the Chiefs need to find a way to bring back Wilson as he continues to emerge as a NFL player.
Zach Fulton
The Chiefs offensive line has some impressively versatile players, but Fulton could be the most versatile. Fulton has been huge for the Chiefs in the past in filling in at center or guard, due to injuries or other players struggling with their performance. Fulton is also a perfect fit in the type of offense that Andy Reid likes to run.
Anthony Sherman
Fullback may not seem like an important position anymore, but Sherman is key in the Chiefs offensive scheme. Sherman’s pass blocking is consistent and his underrated speed to get out on the edge in run blocking has been a main reason why guys like Kareem Hunt, Spencer Ware and Jamaal Charles have enjoyed impressive rushing campaigns in the past. Sherman also poses as one of the main leaders for Andy Reid.
De’Anthony Thomas
Tyreek Hill definitely has the punt return spot on lock, but finding the main man at kick returner is still something the Chiefs need to do for next season. Thomas is vital to many of the special teams units for Kansas City. Thomas can also be a main contributor in the passing game. A new quarterback could open up more opportunities for Thomas in the offensive game plan.
Sweep:
Tyler Bray
Bray has been a longtime backup with Kansas City and has not played any meaningful snaps in the NFL. During preseason reps, Bray has continued to struggle with his accuracy and footwork. The only reason the Chiefs may keep him is if they are unable to find a suitable backup for Mahomes.
Jordan Devey
Devey saw just one start and played in nine total games for the Chiefs this season. But compared to Fulton, Cam Erving and Parker Ehinger, Devey is less dependable for depth among the offensive line. Devey is slightly slower in his footwork.
CJ Spiller
Spiller may have enough talent and drive to still make it as a number two or three NFL running back on a team’s depth chart, but for Kansas City, they already have three suitable pieces at running back. Kareem Hunt had a phenomenal rookie season as the league’s leading rusher. Spencer Ware will be back from injury and give some needed boost to keep Hunt fresh. Also, Charcandrick West is a pure third down back who is tremendous in pass blocking. He also excel in catching the ball. There is just simply no room for Spiller in Kansas City.
Next time we will address the Chiefs’ pending defensive free agents.