L'Jarius Sneed tag-and-trade return could revitalize Chiefs' draft armory

What could the Chiefs expect in return for L'Jarius Sneed?

The Chiefs should not be expecting a Davante Adams-esque return for Sneed, which is no fault of the cornerback. He has put together some stellar tape and should be a key defensive piece for any team he plays for in 2024 and beyond. But, every general manager has his price.

If I had to compare Sneed's draft value to a previous trade, it would be Ngakoue. Ngakoue was a second-round pick and the trade included a lower draft pick kicker, which feels appropriate for Sneed's value. Sneed is still young and has his best years ahead of him, just like Ngakoue did when the Jaguars traded him.

Sneed is a game-changer in the passing game, with a proven track record of locking down some of the best wideouts in the league. Although he is not among the top five cornerbacks, he is a talented player who could prove to be a valuable asset to any team.

However, given the current market, it is unlikely that a team would be willing to trade their first-round pick for him, regardless of how much fans may desire a high return. Nevertheless, the Chiefs have the option to add their own picks to the mix, which could entice a higher-quality return. I am confident that they will do just that, and successfully negotiate a beneficial deal with at least one team.

In Kansas City, every single pick counts as the Chiefs are consistently on the lookout for potential game-changers in the late rounds of the draft. Therefore, it is highly likely that the return for their pick will fall between a high second-round pick to a late second-round pick with Day 3 draft compensation.

Team-specific predictions

Arrowhead Addict editor Matt Conner already looked at plausible trade partners, so let's start there.

1. Detroit Lions

I would hate to see Sneed go, but if I had to pick a head coach for him, it would be Dan Campbell. Detroit is just a team of dawgs, and Sneed fits that identity perfectly.

Trade prediction: Sneed and 95th overall for 29th overall and 2025 4th-round pick

2. Los Angeles Rams

The Rams love moving their draft picks, but they have picks to burn this year. With four top-100 picks, the Rams are enticing partners.

Trade prediction: Sneed for 52nd overall and 153rd overall

3. Arizona Cardinals

If Kansas City looks to Arizona for a trade, they should press the desperate organization. With five top-100 picks, Kansas City should pry one and look for a late-round sweetener.

Trade prediction: Sneed for 35th overall and 187th overall

Sneed's value is ultimately what another team will pay. If a trade happens, we will all react to it, no matter if we feel it is an overpay or an underpay. But, the Chiefs' first option needs to be retaining Sneed for a few more years, keeping him and McDuffie, one of the league's best cornerback tandems, in Kansas City.