Predicting which free agents will re-sign with Kansas City Chiefs
By Grant Tuttle
FB Michael Burton
Prediction: The Chiefs re-sign him
Cost to Retain: 1-2 years worth 1.2-1.9 Million/yr
Analysis: Under Andy Reid, it seems a certainty that the Chiefs will have a full-time fullback on the roster. Burton has been a nice special teams contributor and has done what has been asked of him. While fullback is not the sexiest position to play in the NFL that gets the hype and glory, Andy Reid loves having one on his rosters. Look for Burton to return due to his understanding of the offensive playbook and contribution to special teams.
WR JuJu Smith-Schuster
Prediction: The Chiefs re-sign him to be a #2
Cost to Retain: 2-4 years worth $10.5-$15.5 Million/yr
Analysis: There have been a lot of rumors out there pointing to a “mutual interest” in JuJu’s return to Kansas City. With all of that in mind, it will have to be at the right price for both parties. There is no doubt that Smith-Schuster will be one of the best receivers available in free agency this season due to an off-year. Will someone come out and blow him away with an offer similar to that of Christian Kirk last season? That remains to be seen. It seems most likely at this point that the Chiefs retain him for another year or two to be the second-best option at wide receiver as they look for their new #1.
WR Mecole Hardman
Prediction: Chiefs let him walk due to his price tag
Cost to Retain: 2-4 years worth $8.5-$11.8 Million/yr
Analysis: There is no doubt that the Chiefs have loved having Mecole Hardman as a part of their electric offensive attack, but it seems as though we are at the end of their era together. Hardman is one of the fastest players in the league and fills a role on offense that will undoubtedly intrigue many general managers across the NFL. With the trade for Kadarius Toney earlier in the season, Andy Reid’s remarks prior to the Super Bowl, and the energy around the subject, it feels like the Chiefs begin to live in a post-Hardman era next season.
WR Justin Watson
Prediction: Chiefs let him walk
Cost to Retain: 1 year worth $1.2-$2 Million
Analysis: Justin Watson was certainly a nice piece of the equation for the Chiefs, but he seems like a temporary piece. After having a nice year with the Chiefs, Watson may have just earned himself a nice paycheck with someone else. The Chiefs could certainly consider him bringing him back at this price, but they may want to invest in younger options, or options that may fill-out the top of the depth chart a little more. Watson’s market could be limited and if the Chiefs like him enough on special teams, he could easily make his way back for another season.