Potential Chiefs Offensive Line Free Agency Signing Just Became Available
By Joe Summers
The Chiefs are expected to add to the offensive line this offseason to shore up depth, as both LT Donovan Smith and backup guard Nick Allegretti. One potential free agent acquisition just became available Monday as the Jets released veteran guard Laken Tomlinson in a cost-cutting move.
Tomlinson struggled in New York after signing a three-year, $40 million contract in 2021 but is remarkably durable, having started in 114 consecutive games. If he's looking to serve as a depth role and potential spot-starter for the Super Bowl champions, that kind of durability is an attractive option for the Chiefs.
Originally traded by the Broncos to the Lions after being selected with the 28th pick in the 2015 draft, Tomlinson spent time in Detroit before joining San Francisco and ultimately residing with New York.
Chiefs Free Agency: Potential Offensive Line Depth Now Available
The #Jets are releasing guard Laken Tomlinson, per source.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 27, 2024
Move saves around $8.1M on the cap.
Incredibly durable player has started 114 straight games.
I wouldn't want to bring Tomlinson on even remotely close to his previous contract. The Chiefs have two excellent incumbent guards, so Tomlinson would only see the field if disaster strikes like it did when Joe Thuney tore his pectoral muscle in the postseason.
It's certainly possible that Brett Veach brings Nick Allegretti back, given how admirably he performed in Thuney's place. Should he try to become a starter elsewhere, then it'd make sense to give Tomlinson a look as a potential replacement.
I’m surprised the #Jets released Laken Tomlinson, as @JFowlerESPN said. Performance wasn’t what they’d hoped, which is stunning when you think about it, but I felt he’d improve immensely by stabilizing those next to him. Not to mention: He was always available — a Jet rarity.…
— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) February 27, 2024
Being available is a big positive, and Tomlinson isn't long removed from being the 49ers' long-term starter. He was with San Francisco when Kansas City won the first Super Bowl of the Mahomes' era, so he's got experience in big games as well.
Now that the Chiefs have extra cap space to work with, I'd imagine they'll be more aggressive in exploring veteran players seeking a ring just in case there's a fit.
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