Important Chief Showing Little Interest in Extension Ahead of Season
By Joe Summers
Fourth-year linebacker Nick Bolton has become one of the most important players on the Chiefs and a vocal leader of the defense, but he's focusing entirely on the upcoming season instead of a potential contract extension.
Bolton has been clear that he doesn't want to discuss a new deal during the season, choosing instead to let his play talk before commanding a raise. It's a unique position to take, yet still one he's consistent with.
After missing time last year, Bolton is betting on himself. What does that mean for his future with the organization?
Chiefs News: Nick Bolton Says He Has 'More to Prove' Before Extension Talks
Asked about a potential contract extension, Chiefs LB Nick Bolton mentioned he still feels like he has more to prove, so his focus right now is training camp.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) July 22, 2024
Sounds like he doesn’t feel he put his best product out there with the ‘23 injury adversity and can better the value. pic.twitter.com/2szuCOdgMQ
Originally a second-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Bolton quickly established himself as one of the more physical linebackers in the league and an elite tackler. While there are still fair questions about his abilities in pass coverage, Drue Tranquill's presence helps alleviate that concern.
It's admirable that Bolton wants to prove his value and earn a bigger payday, though it does raise doubt about his future with the franchise. If he has the season he hopes he does, will he price himself out of Brett Veach's target range?
The highest-paid linebacker in the league is Roquon Smith at $20 million per year. It seems highly unlikely that Kansas City is willing to pay that kind of salary, but that's what Bolton will be asking if he has a great year. The writing may be on the wall for one of the Chiefs' best players, and Bolton seems content with the possible outcomes.
In his first three seasons, the former Missouri Tigers star has 352 tackles, three interceptions, two sacks and a TD with several monumental postseason moments. He's important, but at what cost?
Difficult decisions await the front office. Bolton is betting on himself, yet he'll put the team in an impossible position if his wager proves salient.
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