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3 veteran free agents the Chiefs can still add to strengthen their defense

If the Chiefs wanted to go shopping, here are the best options to bolster the defense before the season begins.
Nov 23, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker Kenneth Murray, Jr. (59) reacts after retrieving a fumble in the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles  at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Nov 23, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker Kenneth Murray, Jr. (59) reacts after retrieving a fumble in the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Depth, no matter the team, is one of the most vital things a team can add to its roster. Having players who can go in, substitute for starters, and perform at the highest level possible can increase a team's chances of winning tenfold. What team wouldn't want the best talent it could possibly have?

On defense, depth is vital. There are different packages, situations, matchups, and so on that coordinators and coaches must evaluate before placing players in scenarios in which they have the best chance of succeeding. For the Chiefs, there are still proven veteran players they could add to the roster. Here are three who could be possible fits:

As of press time, the Chiefs have $3,906,575 of cap space left, so we will be looking at players they can still sign somewhere in that range.

Kenneth Murray

Kenneth Murray would be a solid veteran addition to the Chiefs' linebacking corps. In 2025, Murray started 16 of 17 games for the Dallas Cowboys and racked up 81 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and one sack. He has been a consistent starting linebacker for multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Chargers, Tennessee Titans, and Dallas Cowboys.

While he will not break any records, he provides solid veteran depth at linebacker and can contribute on defense for the entirety of the season. In the worst-case scenario, if someone goes down, the Chiefs would have a solid backup option to rely on.

Jordan Poyer

Jordan Poyer is another solid option the Chiefs could add for veteran depth in their secondary. While he played in 11 games and started 10, including the playoffs, for the Buffalo Bills in 2025, he racked up 72 total tackles, three pass breakups, and one interception. In his career, he has also earned a Pro Bowl selection (2022) and first-team All-Pro honors (2021).

While the Chiefs have some interesting young talent, Poyer would add veteran depth they would enjoy. Additionally, he could easily contribute to the Chiefs' defense. There is nothing wrong with adding a player with more than 100 career starts who can mentor the younger defensive backs and safeties.

Tre'Davious White

If the Chiefs are looking to add more veteran depth to the cornerback room after bringing back L'Jarius Sneed and Kaiir Elam, Tre'Davious White is still available in free agency. As a starter for the Buffalo Bills last season, he had 40 total tackles, 10 pass breakups, and one interception. In his career, he has earned two Pro Bowl selections (2019–2020), first-team All-Pro honors (2019), and second-team All-Pro honors (2020).

Last year showed that White still has something left in the tank. Would he be a starter for the Chiefs? Likely not, unless something happens. However, he provides depth and veteran NFL experience, which are vital for any team looking to go all the way.

Honorable Mentions

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