The Kansas City Chiefs are expected to be active at the NFL trade deadline as they look to bolster their roster for another Super Bowl run, according to an ESPN insider. With a 4-3 record and their offense finding rhythm, insiders anticipate the team will focus on addressing defensive needs and shoring up the offensive line.
Kansas City’s defensive line, while anchored by Chris Jones, has struggled to generate consistent pressure. With only 15 sacks through seven games, the pass rush ranks in the middle of the league, leaving the secondary under significant strain. Analysts have suggested the Chiefs may target an experienced edge rusher or interior lineman to strengthen their defensive front.
Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, NFL
Oct 19, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) during warmups prior to a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
On the offensive side, injuries to guard Trey Smith and right tackle Jawaan Taylor have raised concerns, though both are expected to return soon. The status of rookie left tackle Josh Simmons remains unclear, making offensive line depth another area of focus. General Manager Brett Veach’s history of midseason moves indicates he may prioritise reinforcing the trenches.
Potential trade candidates mentioned include Miami Dolphins edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and veteran interior defenders. Kansas City has a proven track record of adding impactful defensive players at the deadline, as seen with their acquisition of Melvin Ingram in 2021. Such a move could provide the necessary boost to an already solid defense.
ESPN’s NFL Analysis Projects Kansas City Chiefs’ Trade Deadline Activity
Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, NFL
Oct 12, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) rushes the ball against the Detroit Lions during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Kansas City is projected to be an active player before the trade deadline ends. This is detailed more in an analysis by Dan Graziano for ESPN.
Graziano: The Chiefs are almost always active at the trade deadline. It seems they add a receiver most years. But assuming everyone stays healthy, they seem to like what they have at that position. I also don’t get the sense they’re desperate to add a running back, as has been speculated by many on the outside since the season began.
If the Chiefs add at the deadline, I expect it to be on defense — maybe a veteran edge rusher — or possibly the offensive line. Rookie tackle Josh Simmons’ situation continues to be murky, and a couple of other linemen left Sunday’s game against the Raiders because of injury. No one really noticed, since the Raiders weren’t putting up a fight, but if guard Trey Smith’s back injury turns into something that causes him to sit out time, that would be a tough hole to fill for an offense that’s really starting to click.
Kansas City’s receiving corps, led by Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and Hollywood Brown, has performed well, alleviating the need for offensive skill-position additions. This allows the front office to concentrate resources on areas with greater urgency as the deadline approaches.
Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, NFL
Oct 19, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) scrambles against the Las Vegas Raiders during the second quarter of the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
The Chiefs’ strategy reflects their commitment to maximising their championship window. With a balanced approach to addressing roster needs, Kansas City appears poised to solidify its position as a serious contender in the AFC.
Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, NFL
Oct 19, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) gets ready prior to a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
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