3 Chiefs who should be on the trade block this offseason

Chiefs trade rumors, Chris Jones (Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)

Chiefs fans are still riding high after winning Super Bowl 57, but Kansas City’s front office should consider trading these stars before next season. 

There’s a natural temptation facing the Kansas City Chiefs‘ front office to bring everyone back from last year’s Super Bowl-winning team. Of course, the NFL’s salary cap rules make that an impossible dream. Kansas City will be forced to let players leave via free agency but they should also keep a close eye on potential trades this offseason.

The real issue general manager Brett Veach is facing is that some of his team’s biggest stars have massive cap numbers heading into the 2023 campaign. That’s particularly true on the defensive side of the ball. Keeping defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s group together will be a major challenge.

Some Chiefs fans will be surprised to see the star power on this list. Swinging at least one big deal to clear salary may be required for Kansas City to retool before Week 1 arrives.

Chiefs who should be on the trade block: 3. Chris Jones

Jones is arguably the best defensive tackle in the NFL not named Aaron Donald. There’s even a cogent argument to be made that he outplayed the Rams’ star last season. Losing him would be a massive blow to the Chiefs’ chances of repeating as Super Bowl champions.

The problem with Jones is his contract. He’s entering the last year of his deal and is slated to make just under $29 million against the cap. Kansas City either needs to ink him to a long-term extension or get a return with him via trade this offseason.

Making him the highest-paid defensive lineman in the game would be the preferable outcome, but the Chiefs can’t afford to blow the market away. If Jones’ asking price is too high they should consider dealing him for multiple first-round picks.