The Chiefs could be an under-the radar-candidate to acquire explosive playmaker that would boost their offense in 2025
If there's one thing that's clear for the Kansas City Chiefs heading into the offseason, it's that they need help on the offensive side of the ball. Outside of the quarterback position, an argument can be made for each group on offense needing an upgrade. The Chiefs have a clear need for a left tackle, […]
If there's one thing that's clear for the Kansas City Chiefs heading into the offseason, it's that they need help on the offensive side of the ball.
Outside of the quarterback position, an argument can be made for each group on offense needing an upgrade. The Chiefs have a clear need for a left tackle, and could need a new starting right guard if they're unable to retain Trey Smith.
They are also losing depth at wide receiver and running back with DeAndre Hopkins, Hollywood Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and Kareem Hunt set to hit free agency. Then there's the impending retirement decision from tight end Travis Kelce, which would obviously be a big blow should he decide to hang it up.
One move that Kansas City could make that would instantly upgrade its offense is by trading for San Francisco 49ers WR Deebo Samuel. It has been confirmed that the 49ers are exploring trade scenarios for the six-year veteran, and both sides seem motivated to get it done.
What would trading for Samuel look like for the Chiefs?
When a well-known name becomes available for trade, the initial thought is that it will take a lot of draft capital to acquire him. However, that doesn't appear to the case with Samuel. He is coming off one of the least productive seasons of his career, and has battled through numerous injury issues over the years.
San Francisco will also want to quickly deal him before March 22 to avoid paying him a $15.4 million option bonus. That leads me to believe that Samuel can be had for a Day 3 draft pick (rounds 4-5), and perhaps another in the late rounds (6-7). K.C. currently has one pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, one pick in the second round, two in the third, one in the fifth, and one in the seventh.
Since the Chiefs don't have a fourth-round selection, they would likely have to surrender one of their thirds. That and their seventh-round pick could get the job done. The Chiefs would certainly need to make their remaining four picks count if they were to do the deal, but they could also deal a 2026 pick instead.
Finally, there's the financial side of the equation. Samuel has one year left on his current contract, and is owed a little over $16 million. The Chiefs' salary cap situation is very fluid with Kelce's retirement decision looming and whatever their plan may be with potentially bringing some of their own free agents back.
It will be interesting to see if K.C. does enter the sweepstakes for Samuel. You can debate whether or not they should, but there's no question that he would be a great fit in coach Andy Reid's offense. A WR corps featuring Samuel, Xavier Worthy, and Rashee Rice could be absolutely lethal.
