Kansas City Chiefs fans are well aware that GM Brett Veach is always going to be searching for ways to improve. It doesn't matter the record or time of year, there is a relentless approach that has helped make the Chiefs' dynasty over the last handful of seasons. Leaving room to wonder if the next big move the Chiefs make could be the surprise signing of a former division rival. One of the weirder stories heading into the season was the Las Vegas Raiders opting to cut recent blockbuster signing Christian Wilkins.
It seems that the Raiders didn't agree with the defensive tackle's rehab decisions, as well as a report of a strange interaction with a teammate that left a level of frustration. All adding up to the release of a potentially elite player who would be the perfect fit in the middle of Kansas City's defense. If there is one obvious concern with the current defense, it is a lack of depth in the middle of the defensive line. Wilkins gives you a chance to find the perfect secondary option alongside Chris Jones.
Former Chiefs Rival Christian Wilkins Could Become Perfect Midseason Signing
The last year Wilkins was fully healthy, the pass rusher had 9.0 sacks and was a consistently dominating presence on the inside for the Miami Dolphins. This led to a $110 million contract with the Raiders that lasted only a season. Regardless of the reasons, the level of play from the defender over the past two years demands a level of interest from Veach and the Kansas City front office.
The Chiefs can offer Wilkins the ability to come into a low-pressure environment to focus on his rehab with the goal of being ready for the playoff stretch. Jones and Wilkins lining up on the inside gives you a chance to wreck the opposing offense, no matter the level of talent. Add in the return of Rashee Rice as the Kansas City offense begins to figure things out, and dreams of a fourth straight trip to a Super Bowl appear a very plausible reality.
Signing Wilkins isn't just about the potential ceiling, but understanding your weaknesses and looking for the best possible answers even as you appear poised to go on a run. If the move fails, nothing will be lost with the Chiefs easily being able to escape a short-term prove-it deal that Wilkins will garner at this stage of the season.
For Wilkins, it is a chance to play for the league's prestige franchise and earn another payday at the end of the 2025 season. Clearly making it an enticing option for both sides and a move that should unquestionably be explored in the next weeks of the season.