The best free agent bargains still available for the Kansas City Chiefs
By Jacob Milham
OL Greg Van Roten
Listen, I am all aboard the Hunter Nourzad hype train, but Chiefs Kingdom knows you can never have too many backup offensive linemen. The Super Bowl LV loss proved that, after injuries ravaged the offensive front and gave Tom Brady another Super Bowl. In that vein, Nick Allegretti's departure opens a window of opportunity for Nourzad, Hanson, and Caliendo, creating space for them to step up and prove themselves this summer. But all are green or pretty close to it. That is why a backup option like Greg Van Roten makes too much sense.
The 34-year-old managed to play more than 1,000 snaps for the Las Vegas Raiders last year, starting all 17 contests, showcasing his durability and reliability. Van Roten has had a career as a journeyman guard; however, his tenure with the Raiders proved to be a successful gamble, showcasing his adaptability and value to a team. The AFC West rival signed Van Roten for little more than the league minimum, and he had a career year in Las Vegas. He posted a 97.8% pass efficiency rating and no penalties across the season.
Why should Kansas City be interested?
Kansas City should at least give Van Roten a call. He has carved out a nice NFL career, but he hasn't played on a meaningful squad. Coming to Kansas City and competing for a backup guard role should entice the Penn graduate. Plus, he reassured teams last year that he isn't a pass-blocking liability and that he remains productive in either zone or gap run schemes.
Van Roten may not significantly alter Kansas City's championship odds, but he serves as a reliable insurance policy for the team's offensive line, ensuring depth and stability in crucial situations. While not flashy, bolstering the roster with players like Van Roten contributes significantly to the Chiefs' winning aspirations.