With the 2026 NFL Draft in the books, there is far more clarity on what the remaining needs of the Kansas City Chiefs are before the start of the season. At the top of the list has to be additional depth at the receiver position. If the season started today, it would be Jalen Royals serving as the team's fourth option with a starting trio of Rashee Rice, Tyquan Thornton, and Xavier Worthy. There isn't one of these players who isn't facing some type of concern or question heading into next season.
This leaves a clear need at the position and should lead the Chiefs to consider signing current free agent Deebo Samuel. While the veteran comes with clear injury concerns, the pass catcher has offered more than 600 receiving yards each of the past four seasons and would be a great wrinkle to add to the KC offense.
It isn't any secret that Andy Reid gets the most out of his players, and if there is anyone capable of getting the most out of the latter years of Samuel's career, it is the head coach. There is also the fact that the playmaker can be utilized in several positions.
What made Samuel's early seasons with San Francisco so successful was the ability to line up all over the field, whether at receiver or in the backfield. This is the exact type of weapon that is going to help take pressure off Patrick Mahomes as the quarterback returns from an ACL injury.
Chiefs Should Sign Deebo Samuel as Final Piece of 2026 Offense
Aside from parting ways with Jawaan Taylor and signing Kenneth Walker, the Chiefs have been relatively quiet in free agency when it comes to offensive changes. The team's moves have clearly told us that the issues facing the offense were perceived as coaching problems and not a lack of rostered talent.
Still, fans would feel far better about the unit if there was one last move they could put their arms around that clearly gives a chance at meaningful improvement. Signing Samuel does just that while handing Mahomes a weapon that is going underrated in free agency.
Even in a down season in 2025, Samuel had 727 receiving yards and five touchdowns with the Washington Commanders. Parting ways with the receiver appeared to be more about his contract and less about concerns when it comes to consistent production.
No question, Reid's offense is the right fit for Samuel and would be an elite final move on the heels of a great draft haul. It is at least a move the franchise should explore, giving Samuel a chance to contend for a Super Bowl and KC an opportunity to add overlooked production.
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