Heading into the 2026 offseason, one area of clear concern for the Kansas City Chiefs is a lack of cornerback depth.
Trent McDuffie is appearing to be either a trade or extension option, while Jaylon Watson is scheduled to hit free agency. Depth corners Joshua Williams and Nazeeh Johnson are scheduled to hit free agency as well, making the need at the position incredibly clear.
However, Johnson isn't hesitating to make it clear that he expects to return to the Chiefs. In a recent interview with the Winchester Star's Robert Niedzwiecki, the veteran CB feels confident that he isn't going anywhere.
"I think (the Chiefs) are going to bring me back," Johnson said. "I can test the market and see how much I'm valued, but the Chiefs know what I can do. We can't have communication right now because of the (free agency rules), but I have a good understanding with them. They know my talent level.
This doesn't come as a surprise due to Johnson's history with the franchise. The defensive back was drafted in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL draft and has been with the franchise ever since. While there was a brief roster cut, Johnson was quickly re-signed to the team's practice squad and has remained a depth piece since.
Chiefs Would be Wise to Take Advantage of Nazeeh Johnson's Clear Desire to Return
Johnson's role has been limited, evidenced by the fact that he played zero defensive snaps in the 2025 season. Still, there is value in re-signing him at a veteran minimum at the very least as a proven camp and preseason option. Johnson has appeared in 29 games with a lone sack and 66 career tackles. While there is limited value in bringing the defender back, there is enough experience for Johnson to step in if needed.
It makes sense that Johnson would want to continue being part of defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's unit based on the consistent winning that has happened since he joined the organization. Even coming off a frustrating 2025 season, no team in the league has been as difficult to beat in the playoffs as the Chiefs over the last six seasons.
Add in the chance to contribute to a position group in need of depth, and it makes far too much sense to ignore. Both sides should welcome a reunion as long as Johnson is willing to accept the vet minimum. Anything more would be an overpay and a clear sign that it is time to let Johnson walk away and serve as depth in a new landing spot.
Judging from Johnson's comments and his experience with the Chiefs, this scenario seems incredibly unlikely. While K.C. does need to retool its roster and bring in new contributors, Johnson doesn't qualify, considering that you can easily cut the veteran if the team finds superior depth before the start of the 2026 season.
Johnson should be brought in to compete, taking pressure off free agency and the draft, helping with general manager Brett Veach's offseason planning. It's a low-risk, high-reward move that could pay off for the Chiefs in the long run.