The Kansas City Chiefs Should Bring Back Bashaud Breeland

Former Chiefs’ cornerback Bashaud Breeland was released by the Minnesota Vikings early Saturday afternoon. The Vikings’ decision to cut ties with their starting cornerback came after a reported verbal altercation between Breeland and the coaching staff. According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, “Bashaud Breeland got into a verbal altercation today at practice with coaches, took off his cleats and got into it with multiple teammates who were trying to calm the situation.” This incident combined with Breeland’s poor play on the field made releasing him an easy decision.

His production rapidly declined during his short stint with Minnesota. In 13 games, he’s allowed 59 receptions which rank 2nd worse among active cornerbacks. Although, Pro Football Focus has him listed as the 16th best cornerback with an overall grade of 47.2. All things considered, that’s not terrible, but his tape clearly indicates he’s having a down year.

Should the Kansas City Chiefs Sign Bashaud Breeland?

After looking back over Bashaud Breeland’s time in Kansas City, I think a lot of fans forget how impactful he truly was. Over 2 seasons with the Chiefs, he started 26 games and racked up 86 total tackles, 4 interceptions, and 17 passes defended. That’s remarkable production from one of your key contributors in the secondary. In my opinion, he was an above-average defensive back on the same Kansas City Chiefs team that went to back-to-back Super Bowls. Remember, Bashaud Breeland, intercepted 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppollo early on in Super Bowl LIV. He was rewarded for his efforts in that game with a Super Bowl championship ring.

I personally would entertain the idea of a Bashaud Breeland reunion in Kansas City. A lot of fans think he’s washed, which is possible but keep in mind the Vikings have a history of misusing talent. However, we can’t completely disregard Breeland’s play this season. Opposing quarterbacks are not afraid to throw at him and that’s concerning. The media is also trying to push the narrative that Bashaud Breeland is a toxic player, but I guarantee you every single person within the Chiefs locker room would welcome him back with open arms.

So, in my mind, the Kansas City Chiefs should absolutely bring back Bashaud Breeland. With that being said, I don’t want Breeland as a starter. The Chiefs have witnessed players like L’Jarius Sneed, Rashad Fenton, and Charvarius Ward flourish in larger roles. I think Breeland would find success as a role player. He knows the system and he could come off the bench and provide a spark in the secondary. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if we see Bashaud Breeland in a Chiefs uniform later this season!