KC Chiefs: Way too early list of defensive linemen to target in 2021

Defensive Linemen for KC Chiefs to Target – Sheldon Rankins

The Saints selected Sheldon Rankins with their first-round pick in 2016 and he wasn’t the explosive player they were hoping to land, especially over the last two years. He started just one game in the last two years and accounted for 3.5 sacks during that time. That’s a far cry from his draft selection.

Rankins might have disappointed in the Big Easy, but he’d be a promising young addition to this Chiefs defense. He’ll only be 27 years old when the 2021 season rolls around and a change of scenery could certainly do wonders for the former Louisville product.

Spotrac lists Rankins’ market value at four years with an average salary of $11.3 million, which is likely out of KC’s range. If they decide they can swing it, however, signing Rankins could be a very good move for this football team.

Defensive Linemen for KC Chiefs to Target – Derek Wolfe

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Chiefs fans are all too familiar with Derek Wolfe, who spent eight years with the hated Denver Broncos before spending this past season with the Ravens on a one-year deal. Wolfe played well in Baltimore, appearing in 14 regular-season games and totaling 51 tackles along with a sack.

Wolfe is turning 31 this week but is worthy of a two-year deal. He’s still playing at a high level and is someone the Chiefs could really use along their d-line. Wolfe made just $3 million last year and while he’s probably in line for more money after having a good season, the Chiefs could definitely swing a deal for the former Bronco.

Maybe Travis Kelce — who played with Wolfe at Cincinnati — could persuade his former teammate to come to Kansas City. You never know.

The Kansas City Chiefs need to add depth along their defensive line and any of these guys would be sound additions to the defense.