Chiefs' Pending Free Agent Seals His Fate With Latest Performance

The Kansas City Chiefs are playing their first of three games in a 10-day period. They rolled into Week 16 with a 13-1 record, including a four-game win streak.

The Chiefs have a two-game lead for the No. 1 seed, going into this showdown. Kansas City is fighting for extra rest and to have the postseason run through Arrowhead again.

This group is chasing history and their third straight Super Bowl but some talk about the 2025 offseason has started. GM Brett Veach isn't worried about that right now but one impending free agent sealed his fate in the matchup against the Houston Texans.

Linebacker Nick Bolton's rookie deal is slated to expire at the end of the year. The 24-year-old is going to be an unrestricted free agent but the Chiefs would be smart to let him walk.

Heading into the game, Bolton was Kansas City's leading tackler (94) with 10 tackles for loss and three sacks. He has a knack for being around the football, but where he's a liability in pass coverage. During the first half against Houston, Bolton finished with a 53.4 coverage grade per PFF, allowing three receptions.

His shaky play was easily noticed and was called out by fans on X (formerly known as Twitter).

The Missouri product has trouble in space and taking the right pursuit angle to bring down the ball carrier.

The Chiefs have an exciting linebacker in Leo Chenal on the roster, who is third on the team in snaps at LB (354) going into this game. The 24-year-old has seen less than 35% of defensive snaps from Weeks 9-15.

In 2024, Chanel registered 51 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles. He is someone who should see an expanded role for less money and allow Bolton to sign elsewhere in free agency.

Bolton has been productive over four seasons for the Chiefs but his time is ticking in KC.

More Kansas City Chiefs News: