The Kansas City Chiefs are entering a pivotal offseason as they look to refresh a roster that struggled through a 6-11 finish in 2025.
With a tight salary cap and several key contributors either hitting free agency or carrying large cap hits, the franchise faces some difficult personnel decisions. Balancing veteran leadership with cost-effective production and opportunities for younger talent will be critical to how Kansas City approaches 2026.
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One of the most discussed potential moves involves right tackle Jawaan Taylor. Taylor, who was brought in to stabilize the offensive line, carries one of the heftiest cap hits on the roster – over $27 million in 2026 – and has struggled with penalties and inconsistent play. Cutting him would provide significant financial relief and open the door for cheaper internal options.
That could include Jaylon Moore, who has the versatility to start at multiple line positions and is expected to be the starting right tackle in training camp. The team may also pursue additional depth at tackle through the draft or free agency, ensuring that a Taylor departure would not leave the line vulnerable.
The tight end room also presents a key decision point. Noah Gray has been a reliable secondary option behind Travis Kelce, and cutting him would clear roughly $4 million in cap space.
However, if Kelce decides to retire, a possibility some analysts consider, retaining Gray would provide valuable experience and continuity in a position that would suddenly face a significant void. Gray‘s versatility in both receiving and blocking would make him a logical candidate to fill part of Kelce‘s role if the Chiefs need it.
Veterans facing offseason cuts
Kansas City’s defense has multiple veterans whose roster spots are uncertain. Drue Tranquill, a steady linebacker, could be released to save about $6 million, but his future depends in part on whether emerging talents like Leo Chenal remain with the team.
Similarly, Mike Danna, a defensive end with past production, finds himself in a position where performance must justify salary demands. Meanwhile, Kristian Fulton had a strong finish to 2025 and might have earned a 2026 roster spot, yet cutting him would free up about $5 million, potentially allowing Kansas City to invest in younger defensive backs or pursue free-agent reinforcements.
As the Chiefs prepare for 2026, these decisions will show how much the franchise prioritizes financial flexibility and roster balance. Letting some veterans go could open the door for emerging contributors while also managing the salary cap more effectively.
Kansas City must weigh respect for proven players against the need to cultivate new talent, ensuring the team remains competitive in a league that increasingly rewards youth and cap-conscious roster construction.
