DK Metcalf trade idea has pros and cons for KC Chiefs

THE CONS OF TRADING FOR DK METCALF

1. Compensation in a trade

While it’s totally possible that Metcalf is dealt for a reasonable price, the asking price is reportedly two first-round picks. For a team like the Chiefs, this should be a non-starter. The Chiefs have more glaring needs on the defensive side of the ball and should not engage in any conversation with Seattle that starts with two first-round picks.

That being said, even if the price for the trade is lowered, the Chiefs just moved a star receiver for a ton of new draft capital. Would it truly make sense to then trade most of that capital to another team for a receiver who is very good, but not elite like Tyreek Hill? No, it doesn’t. Rationally, it is not a good move to send your picks that you just acquired for a lesser player.

2. Metcalf’s next contract is going to be bananas

This is all Jacksonville’s fault. Or rather, it’s Trent Baalke’s fault for paying an obscene $18 million average per year contract to Christian Kirk. As teams began to try and make moves to sign and resign receivers, the price got higher than anyone was truly comfortable with. This is why the Chiefs moved on from star receiver Tyreek Hill in the first place. Now, if they trade for Metcalf, the same issue would ensue.

While Metcalf is certainly worth a lot of money, would it make sense to invest a few million less for a player that is not as good as his predecessor who was inarguably better? Once again, no. Metcalf could be paid a contract in the top 8-10 highest-paid receivers. Maybe he is worth that, but with the trade including draft capital, it is a harder sell.

3. Metcalf has not (yet) been a clear number one receiver

Could Metcalf be a number one receiver? Absolutely. Has he been so far in his career? Not to this point. In Metcalf’s time in the NFL, he has always been paired with Tyler Lockett who many have lauded as Russell Wilson’s favorite target. Lockett provided great lateral quickness with an ability to shake free of defenders. This allowed Metcalf to have a little less attention than he might in another role.

Of course, Metcalf would be paired with some good receivers in Kansas City, but his fit here would look different than in Seattle. Andy Reid is known for having a complex playbook for receivers and the Chiefs, to this point, are less dedicated to the run than Seattle was a season ago. The Chiefs are probably in a transition, but he would be taking on a new identity along with the offense.

BOTTOM LINE

There are certainly some good things that Metcalf could bring to Kansas City. Like Tyreek Hill, he is truly one of a kind. He creates matchup nightmares and is capable of incredible things on the field. That being said, the trade itself is an issue. The Chiefs would be actively choosing to take a step backward from Tyreek Hill for similar draft compensation and money.

Personally, I would rather see the Chiefs take their choice of a receiver in the draft or wait until next year’s free-agent class to address the issue. Metcalf is good and could easily change my mind, but he is not an equal to Tyreek Hill and the Chiefs should not be willing to make a move to acquire someone for a similar price and lesser ability.

What say you, Chiefs Kingdom?