3 Nick Bolton Replacements the Chiefs Must Target Ahead of the Trade Deadline

The Chiefs defense suffered a major blow today when it was announced that star middle linebacker Nick Bolton needs surgery after dislocating his wrist and will miss approximately two months.

While the team is confident in Drue Tranquill's ability to fill Bolton's role, Kansas City suddenly has little depth at linebacker. Given how difficult the upcoming schedule is, Bolton's absence will be a significant test for the AFC's most suffocating defense.

To protect the Chiefs' Super Bowl chances and give the organization insurance in case another player gets hurt, let's look at three Nick Bolton replacements the team must target ahead of next week's trade deadline on Halloween.

3 Nick Bolton Replacements the Chiefs Must Target

1. Jordan Hicks - Minnesota Vikings

Hicks is a logical target on the final year of his deal with a Vikings team that should be sellers at the deadline.

With at least 110 tackles each of the last four seasons, Hicks could step right into Bolton's role as a high-volume tackler capable of forcing turnovers. He's already got 53 tackles and a pair of fumble recoveries this year with 13 career interceptions as well.

He's strong in pass coverage and was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week following a Week 6 victory over the Bears, showing he's still capable of excellent play despite Minnesota's defensive struggles.

At 31 years old on an expiring deal, Hicks shouldn't cost the Chiefs a ton of draft capital were Brett Veach to inquire. Pro Football Focus recently proposed a trade to the Cowboys for a fifth-round pick, which would be worth the investment to ensure Kansas City's defense remains elite.

Hicks would be my top target, but he's not the only linebacker that could make a positive impact on the team.