Stefen Wisniewski leaves the Chiefs to sign with the Steelers

Stefen Wisniewski took to Twitter to inform everyone that he’s switching teams this offseason, from the Chiefs to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Kansas City Chiefs were hoping to keep most of the band back together in 2020 for another title run, but unfortunately, some of the team’s desired pieces are leaving for more money or opportunities. One such player is veteran offensive lineman Stefen Wisniewski, who left in free agency on Thursday to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Wisniewski was one of a few internal free agents rumored to have the Chiefs interest in coming back (along with Mike Pennell), but clearly Wisniewski was given a better offer elsewhere. Wisniewski took to Twitter to make the big announcement late on Thursday.

When the Kansas City Chiefs made the midseason signing of Wisniewski, no one could have have predicted the difference it would make in the end of the season. The reliability of having another solid performer along the offensive line, especially someone who elevated the starting line-up throughout the postseason at left guard, was one of several moves that allowed the Chiefs to hold off opponents in the playoffs enough to win their first Super Bowl in 50 seasons.

In addition to the Chiefs interest in his return, Wisniewski also drew the New York Jets attention earlier this week, but now both franchises will likely look elsewhere for further help.

If the Chiefs have to stay with internal options, Andrew Wylie is likely ready to kick back over to his starting spot on the left side next to Eric Fisher. Austin Reiter and Laurent Duvernay-Tardif could round out the starting interior while the Chiefs search for backup options with Nick Allegretti ready at hand.

Wisniewski was a second round pick for the Oakland Raiders back in the 2011 NFL Draft. Since then he’s won two Super Bowl rings with the Philadelphia Eagles (2017) and the Chiefs (2019). He also played a single season for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2015.