D.J. Humphries, Offensive Tackle
The Chiefs have been busy reshaping their offensive line this offseason—a necessary move after the Super Bowl disaster that left Patrick Mahomes running for his life. They cannot afford to put their franchise quarterback in harm’s way like that again.
It all started with the Joe Thuney trade. The Chiefs sold high on a player coming off back-to-back All-Pro seasons, but who will turn 33 in the middle of next year. It’s a bold move, especially considering Thuney was shifted to left tackle late in the season.
To compensate, Kansas City franchise-tagged Trey Smith, betting that Smith, Creed Humphrey, and Jawaan Taylor could anchor the offensive line. They also added Jaylon Moore to start at left tackle.
Moore is a gamble in his own right. He was a part-time player with the San Francisco 49ers but showed flashes when filling in for Trent Williams. The Chiefs are hoping they found a hidden gem, a player buried behind one of the best left tackles in football.
That leaves D.J. Humphries on the outside looking in after a disastrous one-year stint in Kansas City.
Humphries battled injuries in 2024, playing in just two regular season games for the Chiefs. He still prefers to be a starter, but at this point, his best bet may be returning as a swing tackle. If both sides are open to a reunion, that role could be the best fit for everyone.
Peyton Hendershot, Tight End
Peyton Hendershot may not be an impact player on offense—he logged just 86 offensive snaps in 2024—but he does have value on special teams.
Hendershot played on all of Kansas City’s major special teams units last season. It’s the kind of dirty work that doesn’t make headlines but is crucial to rounding out a championship-caliber roster.
If the Chiefs want to maintain depth in the tight end room while keeping their special teams unit strong, bringing back Hendershot on a low-cost deal would be a smart move.