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Potential defensive cuts who could interest Kansas City Chiefs

By Jacob Milham

Oct 1, 2018; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) against Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe (95) at Broncos Stadium at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 1, 2018; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) against Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe (95) at Broncos Stadium at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 8, 2020; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens defensive end Derek Wolfe (95) in the second quarter at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 8, 2020; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens defensive end Derek Wolfe (95) in the second quarter at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

DT Derek Wolfe

A former Denver Bronco, defensive tackle Derek Wolfe would add a valuable defensive presence and dependable production to a questionable interior defensive line.

Wolfe is hardly a spring chicken anymore, as he enters his age-32 season. The veteran joined the Baltimore Ravens in 2020 after several years in Denver. He missed the 2021 season due to injury, after re-signing with Baltimore. The Ravens’ recent moves suggest little prioritization in Wolfe. Also, a player returning from injury after age-30 is not something a team should rely on.

Cutting or trading Wolfe makes sense for Baltimore, as they could save $3.8 million against the cap. Trading away Wolfe seems unlikely and Baltimore could prioritize younger players along the defensive line.

Wolfe’s bread and butter is, by far, his run defense. Wolfe was an elite run defender as recent as 2020, while also having seven sacks in 2019. While teams should not expect Wolfe to perform at that level in 2022, he still has value. Run-stuffing defensive linemen always have a role, and a veteran presence can elevate younger players.

Both apply to Wolfe, and Kansas City would be wise to bring him in. Even if it is at the expense of a younger player. Wolfe can contribute in a limited role immediately, instead of hopes and prayers on the depth chart.

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