Predicting which free agents will re-sign with Kansas City Chiefs
By Grant Tuttle
TE Blake Bell
Prediction: Chiefs bring him back on a 1 year deal
Cost to Retain: 1 year worth $1.2-$1.5 Million
Analysis: The Chiefs seem to love those multiple tight end sets and it just so happens that Blake Bell is the best blocking tight end that the Chiefs have on the roster. After a short stint with the Cowboys, the Chiefs brought Bell back into the fold. Given their recent success and his understanding of the offense, it seems very likely that the Belldozer will be returning to Kansas City.
OT Orlando Brown Jr.
Prediction: Chiefs extend him to top-dollar contract
Cost to Retain: 3-5 year deal worth $18.5-$23.1 Million/yr
Analysis: Orlando Brown Jr. had some ups and downs throughout the season, but finished strong in the late part of the regular season and postseason. Even with the inconsistency, the Chiefs understand the importance of having a functional left tackle. Further, they understand the need for continuity on the offensive line. Patrick Mahomes has gotten used to the way that Brown plays which can’t be understated. While he will be costly, the Chiefs will be looking to re-sign him to be the new veteran presence after they move on from Joe Thuney in a season or two. With Trey Smith and Creed Humphrey getting closer to their chance at a big pay increase, Brett Veach will need to be cautious. Signing Orlando Brown, however, seems like a move that he will make.
OT/G Andrew Wylie
Prediction: Chiefs let him walk due to his price tag
Cost to Retain: 2-3 year deal worth $4.5-$8.5 Million/yr
Analysis: Personally, I believe that Wylie played his way to a contract that the Chiefs are not going to want to pay. Wylie has been a very nice piece of the offensive line for several years in Kansas City and has improved every step of the way. At 28 years-old, he is still in the prime of his career and is a versatile enough to play almost any position along the offensive line. Wylie looks like a guy that might surprise people with how sought after he is due to the group of guys that are available in this years’ free agency pool.
G/C Nick Allegretti
Prediction: Chiefs re-sign him for depth
Cost to Retain: 1 year deal worth $1.1-$1.3 Million
Analysis: Nick Allegretti has served his entire rookie contract with the Chiefs and it seems likely that Kansas City would value his ability as a depth piece. Further, he has the capability of playing any position on the inside of the line. While there may be a team out there that would be willing to pay more, it seems as though he will have a limited market. I look for him to return to Kansas City.