The two areas on the roster that Kansas City Chiefs fans were hoping would receive a boost during Tuesday's trade deadline were the running back and pass-rushing positions. Whether it was an interior pass rusher or an edge rusher, it was clear that the defensive line could use a boost. Kansas City ranks in the middle of the pack with only 20 sacks on the season. While this illustrates the clear need, the Chiefs will have to be content with hoping to find answers on the current roster. Leaving no question that veteran Mike Danna greatly benefits from the deadline silence.
Danna has been a consistent source of frustration, registering only five pressures on the season to go along with one sack in what was a great performance against the Washington Commanders. It was by far Danna's best game of the season, which leaves hope that perhaps better games were ahead. Still, it would've been ideal to see the Chiefs add to the position and bring in a proven contributor. Instead, they are left hoping for a piece of the puzzle they already tossed away once in Danna to finish the season strong.
Chiefs Pass Rusher Mike Danna Given Surprise Opportunity After Deadline
Danna has never been a premier pass rusher, with his best season coming during the 2023 campaign when the veteran finished with 13 quarterback hits and 6.5 sacks. This is the type of production that Kansas City is now asking of the veteran pass rusher after opting not to make a move. Something that is only going to be possible if the pass rusher is given a bit more support from the inside.
One of the quieter but more alarming stories of the 2025 season has been the regression of Chris Jones. For so many seasons, edge rushers have been set up by Jones dominating on the inside, collapsing the pocket, and forcing the quarterback into the arms of a waiting defender. Even if Jones himself wasn't making the play, there was a level of domination that set up lesser talents like Danna.
Kansas City not only needs Danna to take advantage of the second chance the deadline provided, but also for Jones to return to the player he was. If the Chiefs are going to enjoy the expected run in the second half of the season, it must include a more consistent pass rush.
Danna has every reason for motivation, not only for the previously listed reasons, but also from a contract perspective. The Chiefs can escape the final year of the deal (2026) for only a $2 million dead cap hit. This provides more motivation and focus for a strong second-half finish. One that has been perfectly set up by a surprisingly quiet deadline from Kansas City's typically aggressive front office.