It's a thrilling time in the NFL as free agency is set to begin and the Kansas City Chiefs have significant work to do after falling short in the Super Bowl against the Philadelphia Eagles.
While this roster is still among the best in the league, there are clear holes that need to be addressed, particularly on the offensive line. Most fans wanted the organization to acquire star WR DK Metcalf, who ultimately went to the Pittsburgh Steelers, but it's not too late to take advantage of the Seattle Seahawks' firesale.
They've traded Geno Smith and Metcalf while releasing Tyler Lockett. Now, it's time for the Chiefs to make a move for left tackle Charles Cross, who could elevate the offensive line while giving Kansas City a long-term solution to protect Patrick Mahomes' blindside.
compiled LT Charles Cross (#67) and his one-on-one pass sets against the Panthers.
— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) June 13, 2023
Cross did a good job going against Brian Burns without help for most snaps and kept it him mostly at bay throughout this game. Using his length, calm feet and changing up his attack after the snap pic.twitter.com/r2FnANrIwU
Chiefs Must Trade for Seahawks LT Charles Cross After DK Metcalf Deal
The Chiefs' biggest need is obviously on the offensive line. Joe Thuney is gone and there's no apparent answer at left tackle or left guard, making this perhaps the most important offseason of the Mahomes era.
Cross ranked 10th out of 141 qualified tackles at Pro Football Focus in 2024. He's only 24 years old and considered a rising star at the position. Considering that Kansas City is rarely in a position to draft a starting tackle, this is an opportunity that feels too good to pass up.
He's remarkably durable, having started at least 14 games in all three of his seasons and 17 in two of them. Should the Seahawks continue to rebuild, this is a perfect fit that would give Chiefs fans relief while simultaneously providing Mahomes the protection he needs to elevate the offense. This isn't the first time that Cross has been tied to the organization, though it's certainly the most opportune time to strike in a potential trade.
Kansas City needs to have a plan along the left side of the line. Mahomes can't do everything by himself - he needs protection. Cross can provide that and there's reason to think he'll improve with the guidance of offensive line coach Andy Heck. If the Chiefs can pull off a trade for a mid-round pick, or even a third-rounder, they need to.
It's rare that opportunities like this fall into your lap. General manager Brett Veach needs to take advantage or risk another embarrassing meltdown in the most important moments of the season.