Key Chiefs FA Sends Strong Message About KC Future Following SB Loss
The Kansas City Chiefs' attempt to make NFL history came to a screeching halt on Sunday night. Andy Reid's team just couldn't sustain any momentum in Super Bowl 59 as the Philadelphia Eagles emerged with the 40-22 victory, leaving the Chiefs looking for answers regarding how they can bounce back this offseason.
It's going to be a busy next several weeks for Chiefs general manager Brett Veach — especially when it pertains to free agency. Kansas City will see 20 players become unrestricted free agents on March 12, according to Spotrac, and with only about $15.7 million in cap space, not everyone is guaranteed to return.
One of the Chiefs' upcoming free agents is linebacker Nick Bolton, who recently expressed his thoughts regarding his upcoming free agency.
Chiefs News: Nick Bolton Wants to Remain in Kansas City
Following the disappointing Super Bowl loss, Bolton opened up to FOX4 News Kansas City's Harold R. Kuntz about his upcoming offseason plans, including his desire to stay with the Chiefs.
"I'm going to take this one, take 24 hours or 48 hours to reflect on how the year went (and) talk to my agent," Bolton said. "I've been (with the Chiefs) for seven years. It feels like home. (Missouri) welcomed me with open arms as a little 18-year-old with short hair, no facial hair. Let me go through growing pains and find out my own identity, and it reflects home."
Nick Bolton on his desire to stay in KC: "I've been there for 7 years (including his time at Mizzou), it feels like home." pic.twitter.com/5Omq3YhbS2
— Harold R. Kuntz (@HaroldRKuntz3) February 10, 2025
Bolton, 24, has played in Missouri since he spent his college football days playing with the Tigers. The Frisco, TX native stayed in the state when he was selected 58th overall by the Chiefs in the 2021 NFL draft, and has since become one of the league's most respected linebackers.
The 2024 campaign was another productive year for Bolton, who racked up 73 solo tackles, six broken-up passes, three sacks, two fumble recoveries, and an interception in 16 appearances.
As much as Chiefs fans want to see Bolton's Kansas City tenure extended, his potential contract demands could prevent that from happening. Spotrac is listing the veteran LB's market value at $12.3 million annually, which is more than the GM Veach can afford at the moment. Unless some trades or contract restructuring occurs, retaining Bolton will be difficult.
It won't be much longer before clarity is provided regarding Bolton's outlook with the Chiefs. The NFL's tampering period begins on Monday, March 10 before free agency officially opens two days later.
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