The Kansas City Chiefs are in the middle of what could be a quiet roster overhaul—one that’s going to force some tough calls on key free agents.
This offseason alone, 31 players hit some form of free agency (unrestricted, restricted, or exclusive rights). And there’s no relief coming in 2026, with another 36 set to hit the market.
To make things even tighter, Over The Cap projects the Chiefs to be $11.5 million over the cap heading into next season, though that number will shift depending on where the actual cap lands.
Still, the writing’s on the wall. Kansas City is going to have to make some hard choices, and a few familiar faces could be shown the door. Here are four way-too-early cap casualties to keep an eye on in 2026.
Mike Danna
Mike Danna picked the perfect time for a breakout. In 2023, he posted career highs across the board—6.5 sacks, 13 QB hits, and 50 total tackles. That effort earned him a three-year, $24 million contract with the Chiefs in 2024.
But after signing the deal, the production slipped. In 2024, Danna dropped to 3.5 sacks, eight quarterback hits, and 41 tackles.
If that trend continues into 2025, Danna could be one of the first names on the chopping block. He’s set to carry a cap hit of $11.2 million in 2026—not outrageous, but not ideal for a rotational pass rusher who’s having trouble getting home.
The Chiefs could save $9 million by releasing him, and they may already be preparing for that possibility after drafting edge rusher Ashton Gillotte in the third round.