Ex-Chiefs Champion's Latest Injury Opens the Door for Offseason Reunion
By Joe Summers
If Brett Veach and Andy Reid want to continue their trend of reuniting with players this offseason, they've just been granted an ideal opportunity.
Former Chiefs S Juan Thornhill, who spent four years with the organization and won two Super Bowls, is likely on his way off the Browns following his latest injury. Thornhill missed five games on Injured Reserve and now is dealing with a calf issue.
Considering Thornhill's struggles in Cleveland anyway, it feels improbable the organization would keep the pending free agent. That gives the Chiefs a chance to swoop in, should they choose to.
Chiefs Could Reunite With S Juan Thornhill in Offseason
With Justin Reid's contract up after this season, the Chiefs have significant decisions to make in the secondary. The unit hasn't performed up to its 2023 level, yet is still a capable unit. However, Veach's history suggests Reid could be on a new team next year if he wants to make a similar salary to what he has been making, giving Kansas City a major hole to fill.
Bryan Cook and Jaden Hicks are the presumed future of the safety position if Reid walks, yet they'll still need depth behind them. Similar to the role Mike Edwards played last season, Thornhill could be a veteran presence already familiar with Steve Spagnuolo's defensive scheme.
During his time in Kansas City, Thornhill started 52 of 65 games and compiled 320 tackles, 22 deflected passes, eight interceptions, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. He grew progressively worse in coverage though did allow just a 43.0 passer rating when targeted during 2019.
Considering how his Browns tenure has gone, Thornhill likely could be had on the cheap. He's 29 years old, so a short-term deal may be best for all parties.
There's been no indication to this point that the Chiefs are interested in a reunion but if they are, bringing Thornhill back would be relatively easy.
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