3 Chiefs cut candidates entering 2025 offseason

3 Chiefs cut candidates entering 2025 offseason
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The Kansas City Chiefs have set the standard for sustained success in the NFL. However, even the most dominant teams face tough roster decisions. As they head into the 2025 offseason, financial realities and evolving priorities will put general manager Brett Veach and head coach Andy Reid in a position where difficult choices must be made. With Patrick Mahomes still leading the charge, the Chiefs remain firmly in Super Bowl contention. That said, salary cap limitations and the need for fresh talent could force major changes. Among the players who might find themselves on the roster bubble are veteran guard Joe Thuney, underperforming wide receiver Skyy Moore, and even iconic tight end Travis Kelce.

The Three-Peat That Wasn’t

The Chiefs continue to be the NFL’s biggest problem for opposing teams. Despite a constantly changing supporting cast, Kansas City has mastered the art of winning.

It wasn’t always smooth sailing in 2024, though. The Chiefs’ offense notoriously struggled at times, particularly early in the season. However, they found ways to grind out close wins. By the end of the regular season, they had hit their stride. A dominant 15-1 record allowed them to rest their starters in Week 18, effectively securing two weeks of preparation before their playoff run.

With a first-round bye and a decisive victory over the Houston Texans in the Divisional Round, Kansas City advanced to the AFC Championship Game for the seventh consecutive season. A hard-fought battle with Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills ultimately resulted in another trip to the Super Bowl, with history on the line.

However, the Chiefs’ quest for an unprecedented three-peat came to a crushing halt in Super Bowl LIX. Facing the Philadelphia Eagles, the Chiefs struggled to keep pace and suffered a lopsided 40-22 defeat.

Despite the setback, the Chiefs’ dynasty remains intact. It’s clear, though, that Veach and Reid have their work cut out for them this offseason to ensure their championship window stays open.

Here we’ll try to identify the three players who are the Kansas City Chiefs cut candidates entering the 2025 NFL offseason.

  1. Joe Thuney, G

Kansas City’s offensive line largely held its own throughout the Chiefs’ push for a third straight Super Bowl appearance. However, their weaknesses were exposed on the biggest stage. In Super Bowl LIX, the Eagles’ defensive front overwhelmed them, highlighting the need for adjustments in the trenches. Now, the Chiefs face a crucial decision—one that may involve a significant shake-up on the interior offensive line.

For the past few seasons, the Chiefs have benefited from having one of the league’s premier interior trios with Joe Thuney, Creed Humphrey, and Trey Smith. However, with Humphrey recently signing a lucrative extension and Smith set to hit free agency, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to justify keeping all three. Thuney, who carries the fourth-highest cap hit on the team, may be the odd man out.

One way for the Chiefs to free up much-needed cap space would be to move on from Thuney...