Top 5 Chiefs With Most to Prove in 2024

4. Justin Reid - S

This is not about Justin Reid's performance on the field or fit for the roster. He's been spectacular as a tone-setter for the Chiefs and is one of the most important players on the defense. Not only that, Reid has an expanded role and value now thanks to the new rules that positioned him to handle kickoffs.

Instead, this is about Brett Veach's approach in negotiations. He has never given a member in the secondary an extension, moving on from players like Charvarius Ward, Tyrann Mathieu, and now L'Jarius Sneed. Veach has always prioritized youth in the secondary, and Reid has to prove he's worth breaking the bank for after this season.

There are a few factors working in Reid's favor, but Kansas City already has an heir apparent on the roster in Bryan Cook. The team drafted hard-hitting, versatile safety Jaden Hicks this year too, giving the organization a pair of exciting young players at the same position.

In his two years with the Chiefs, Reid emerged as a vocal leader and backed his words up with his play, compiling 178 tackles, 14 deflected passes, four sacks, a forced fumble and an interception while playing in every game except for Week 18's Chargers matchup when Kansas City rested the starters.

I'll be surprised if Reid gets an extension but I'm rooting for it either way. He's brought a tenacious physicality and is still only 27 years old. With these new kickoff rules, perhaps Veach will make an exception on his normal rule.

Reid has proven plenty with the Chiefs. Regardless, this is a massive season for his future, whether in Kansas City or elsewhere.