4 Former Chiefs Who Still Can't find a Job in 2024 Free Agency
As with any offseason, Kansas City Chiefs fans have had to say goodbye to several players this offseason as we approach Week 3 of free agency. While the Chiefs were able to re-sign some free agents (Chris Jones, Drue Tranquill, etc.), others like Nick Allegretti, Tommy Townsend, and Willie Gay Jr. all departed to join new franchises.
But even though some players didn't have issues finding new homes, other Kansas City free agents continue to sit in the open market. After all, the NFL can be a cutthroat business and sometimes free agents must wait weeks (or even months) to be given their next opportunity.
With that in mind, here are four former Chiefs who still can't find a job in free agency.
1. WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling
Chiefs fans had their concerns the moment that it was announced that Kansas City had signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling to a three-year, $30 million contract back in 2022. It was seen as a lot of money for a wide receiver who had never even reached the 700-yard mark before.
Well, it turns out that the Chiefs Kingdom faithful were right to be concerned. The ex-NC State/South Florida product left a lot on the table in 2023, finishing his sixth NFL season with 21 catches for 315 yards and one touchdown across 16 games. He did make a TD catch in the Super Bowl, but that wasn't enough to erase his regular-season shortcomings.
The Chiefs eventually released Valdes-Scantling to save about $12 million, resulting in his free agency status.
Even with two Super Bowl rings, I'm not shocked that MVS is still unemployed. He was far from a reliable target last season, carrying a 50.0% catch rate and a 73.0 passer rating when targeted. If he can't produce with Patrick Mahomes — the best quarterback on the planet — throwing him the ball, it's hard to imagine him having success with a lesser arm under center.