The Kansas City Chiefs only have one star scheduled to hit free agency at the end of the 2025 season, and that is Travis Kelce. This isn't a concern when you consider what the pass catcher means to the franchise. Kelce will either retire or re-sign with the Chiefs for another run at a title. But having their stars' futures all guaranteed doesn't mean impact players won't be setting themselves up to cash in at the end of the season. While Tyreek Hill is the most glaring example, lesser players have long used Mahomes and Andy Reid to breathe life into their careers and earn big paychecks.
Hollywood Brown is going to fall under this description after spending a season with the Chiefs in 2024. The veteran opted to return and continue to build chemistry with the league's best quarterback. This will result in Brown having an impressive 2025 season and pricing his way out of Kansas City. It is the right decision for the Chiefs to move on if Brown produces at the expected levels. With Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice both under contract, there is no viable reason to pay Brown market value.
Hollywood Brown is Spending His Last Season with the Chiefs
Reid and Mahomes are the best talent elevators in the league, and this is going to be reflected in Brown's 2025 results. The inconsistent receiver couldn't have found a better landing spot to set himself up to cash in during free agency one last time. The Chiefs should take a step forward on offense, both based on this and the number of returning players.
The emergence of Worthy and the return of Rice are the biggest reasons to believe this year will be different. Regardless, expecting a jump in production from Brown is more than fair, looking at his career. As talented as the receiver is, there has to be a perfect set of circumstances for things to work.
Kansas City has the advantage of offering Brown the stability to put together a great season that will get him paid one last time. As the veteran's uneven career continues, this is an enticing chance. One thing the Chiefs should keep in mind is that Brown will play his way out of the franchise this season.