Even in late June, with the draft over and free agency passed, there are trade rumblings in every corner of the NFL world. And while a couple moves could still be made, it's more than likely at this point in the offseason, GMs and coaches have their rosters set to enter training camp. However, amongst some Chiefs fans, there is still the hope of landing superstar wide receiver Justin Jefferson.
It's a bold thought, but considering how the past couple of years have gone at receiver for Kansas City, it's one that could easily gain some steam, especially as many look to add fuel to the fire during July's slow news cycle. Jefferson is, after all, one of the single best wideouts in the league and has put together a career start that rivals the best of all time at the position.
But like any trade, it takes two sides to tango, and from what I can assert their has been little said from either side regarding any willingness to begin talks of a deal. The odds of that changing within the coming weeks are futile. But we as Chiefs fans can still dream of finding Patrick Mahomes a top-tier talent on the outside.
A deal for the superstar receiver is unlikely to happen, but what would it look like if it were?
First, let's take a look at what the Chiefs would be acquiring in the 27-year-old Jefferson. For starters, his production has been top-notch. He ranks first all-time in total receiving yards in the six years of his career (8,480), above legends like Randy Moss and Jerry Rice. And despite mediocre quarterback play for the majority of his career, Jefferson has yet to have a season where he doesn't hit 1,000 yards, with four of his campaigns marking between 1,400 and 1,800 yards.
Aside from a 10-game season in 2023, Jefferson has remained incredibly durable and is the full package in terms of route running, touchdown threat, man and zone coverage beater, and rarely ever drops the ball. All that to say, he wouldn't come cheap. Jefferson's trade value is higher than even Tyreek Hill's was four years ago, when the Chiefs traded Hill for five picks, including a first and second rounder.
Not to mention, Jefferson has just two years remaining on his contract after the 2027 season and would be demanding an extension that resets the market at over $42 million per year. The Chiefs would likely be trading away any meaningful picks in 2027 to Minnesota, plus forfeiting the cap flexibility to add anyone of note for years to come on both sides of the ball.
One possible addition to the trade would be including Rashee Rice, which would alleviate a sizable chunk of outgoing draft compensation and get rid of a constant headache for the Chiefs. But again, who in their right mind would trade away their superstar receiver who is under contract, for a player who just got out of jail with one year before he enters free agency?
The Chiefs trading for Justin Jefferson is a fun thought, and nobody would enjoy it more than Mahomes. But it's simply not realistic for what Kansas City can offer.
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