4 overrated free agents the Kansas City Chiefs should stay away from
By Jacob Milham
LB Devin White
Following the Chiefs re-signing Drue Tranquil for multiple years, this fit seems even less likely. Devin White's potential as a linebacker may be overshadowed by his reported attitude problems and high price demands, making it difficult for him to secure his next opportunity in the NFL.
The 2021 Pro Bowler had some highs and lows during his final year with the Buccaneers. His pass defense production improve immensely, allowing a career-best 65.5 passer rating and reeling in two interceptions in 14 games. The LSU product was historically a blitz-first linebacker, so his coverage improvement was a pleasant surprise.
Outside of those metrics, 2023 was a relatively down year. The former fifth overall pick finished with a career-low 83 combined tackles, and tying career-lows in sacks and games started. that latter stat comes from some locker room concerns, where "White's attitude has not sat well recently with some teammates and coaches." as the season ended. Tampa Bay benched White late in the 2023 season, losing his starting role to K.J. Britt.
White reportedly sought an extension pushing $20 million annually last offseason, but him earning that now seem unlikely. He was not a great coverage linebacker ahead of 2023, so there isn't a lengthy track record that he can maintain his production from last year. Plus, a team has to question whatever happened behind the scenes in Tampa Bay. Those involved know the intimate details, but all it takes are one or two leaks to discourage a team from committing long-term money to White.
Kansas City's defensive dynamics are in flux right now, but adding White to the fold casts too many doubts for my liking. The Chiefs should reconsider White following 2024 if the opportunity presents itself. But, the linebacker has some things to prove outside of Tampa