It seems that the Kansas City Chiefs have turned the page on Kareem Hunt after the franchise not only signed star playmaker Kenneth Walker III, but also drafted Emmett Johnson and added Emari Demercado. Brashard Smith remains a wildcard for the position despite coming off an underwhelming rookie season. For Hunt, it appears that re-signing with KC is incredibly unlikely and has left the back searching for a landing spot as we are well past the final wave of free agency.
Hunt remaining unsigned is a bit of a surprise when you consider the elite scoring and short-yardage option the veteran can still be. While there is zero explosive ability left, there is still reason to believe a team would pick up Hunt as a short-yardage option or veteran depth. His 2025 season offered solid production with 611 rushing yards and eight touchdowns.
Kansas City fans understand as well that much of this production was in predictable run situations, with the offense lacking much creativity. Hunt was often put in when the defense understood what was coming, and more often than not, they were still unable to stop Hunt from converting if it was a reasonable distance.
With this in mind, it seems incredibly likely that a team is going to be willing to take on Hunt on a veteran minimum and see what is left in the tank. Looking around the league, it is difficult to see one clear fit emerging, with Hunt perhaps being best served to wait until training camps have gotten underway.
Former Chiefs RB Kareem Hunt continues fruitless free agency search
Waiting for injuries or poor performance to create opportunity seems the surest bet if Hunt wants to lock down a roster spot. The majority of the league is happy with their rosters at this point in the offseason, with playmakers being added in both free agency and the draft. Adding an aging running back isn't going to be at the top of many priority lists until the position becomes a clear area of concern.
Hunt has to remain patient and wait for the right chance to emerge. For the Chiefs, it only makes sense to consider a reunion if Smith proves unable to contribute at a consistent level. If this is the case, Hunt could be brought in as the depth option behind the trio of backs.
The Chiefs understand how to get the most out of Hunt, and could utilize the back in short yardage situations or an occasional change-of-pace role to soften up the defense. Regardless of where, it's simply a matter of time until Hunt finds another chance despite the long offseason wait.
Add us as a preferred source on Google