5 Defenders Chiefs Will Have to Replace After the Super Bowl
4. LB Willie Gay Jr.
Even though the 2023 season wasn't Willie Gay Jr.'s best with the Chiefs, he was still an integral part of the team's defensive success.
Playing his most games since his rookie year (16), Gay finished with 44 solo tackles, four defended passes, three fumble recoveries, one interception, and one sack. He also tallied an opposing passer rating of 76.4 after giving up only 22 receptions for 177 yards on 29 targets.
Gay gives it his all every game and is a player that any championship contender would want to add. Having said that, a projected market value of $7 million could be too pricy for the Chiefs if they already plan on spending big bucks on their other free-agent defenders.
The ex-Mississippi State product is talented and well-loved by the fanbase, but there's a reason why linebackers are one of the more often replaced positions. If the Chiefs think they can get similar production at a cheaper price, they'll look for someone who fits the bill this offseason.