The Kansas City Chiefs have been methodically rebuilding their roster this offseason, making cost-effective moves that address key weaknesses while maintaining their championship core. Their latest addition, defensive end Charles Omenihu on a one-year deal worth up to $7 million, exemplifies the team’s smart approach to constructing a roster capable of competing for an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl.

The Omenihu signing could prove to be particularly impactful. At just 27 years old, Omenihu is returning on what amounts to a “prove it” deal after testing the free agent market. Despite his talent, teams were hesitant to offer a lucrative long-term contract given his recent history – he played only 11 games in 2023 due to suspension and missed significant time last season with an ACL tear.

When healthy and available, Omenihu has been a disruptive force. In those 11 games in 2023, he racked up seven sacks and forced two fumbles. Even more impressive, he generated just 10 fewer pressures than Mike Danna despite playing nearly half the snaps and appearing in six fewer games.

Defensive Line Transformation

The defensive line was arguably Kansas City’s weakest position group before the Omenihu signing. Now, the edge rusher room features George Karlaftis, Mike Danna, Charles Omenihu, Felix Anudike-Uzomah, and Malik Herring – a formidable group that complements interior star Chris Jones.

The addition of defensive tackle Jerry Tillery also provides quality rotational depth. Tillery told reporters he can play both inside and outside, giving defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo valuable flexibility. The Chiefs will likely target at least one defensive tackle early in the upcoming draft, given the position’s depth in this class.

Walter Nolen from Ole Miss could be an ideal target if available at pick 31. Nolen recorded 6.5 sacks, 35 pressures, and 14 tackles for loss last season while playing across the defensive line. His explosive first step and aggressive play style would pair perfectly with Jones to create a nightmare scenario for opposing offenses.

Offensive Weapons Return

On offense, the Chiefs have focused on continuity while adding strategic pieces. Marquise “Hollywood” Brown returns on a one-year deal, telling reporters he has “unfinished business” after his 2024 season was cut short by injury. Brown has developed close relationships with fellow receivers Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy, and believes “the sky is the limit” for the trio when healthy.

The running back room has been bolstered by the return of Kareem Hunt and the addition of former 49ers back Elijah Mitchell. Hunt expressed gratitude for a full offseason to prepare properly, while Mitchell confirmed he’s back to 100% health after missing the entire 2024 season with a hamstring injury.

With both Hunt and Mitchell on one-year deals and Isaiah Pacheco entering the final year of his rookie contract, the Chiefs will likely target a running back in the draft. Several intriguing prospects could fit their system:

• Quinshon Judkins (Ohio State) – A physical 221-pound back who scored 50 touchdowns in 42 college games
• Dylan Sampson (Tennessee) – Scored 22 touchdowns in 2024 and forced 83 missed tackles, though ball security is a concern
• Treveon Henderson (Ohio State) – Versatile back who averaged 7.1 yards per carry and added 284 receiving yards
• Kaleb Johnson (Iowa) – Turned 12% of his runs into 15+ yard gains and averaged 6.4 yards per carry

Adding a dynamic young back would give defenses another threat to worry about and potentially provide the Chiefs with their most feared running game since Hunt’s rookie season in 2017.

Offensive Line Reshuffling

The offensive line remains a work in progress, particularly on the left side. Former 49ers backup Jalen Moore was brought in to compete at left tackle, telling reporters “the tape doesn’t lie” regarding his ability to start in the NFL. Moore spent years learning under All-Pro Trent Williams in San Francisco.

The biggest question is at left guard following Joe Thuney’s departure to Chicago. Options include Kingsley Suamataia, Mike Caliendo, or potentially 2024 fifth-round pick Hunter Nourzad. The team might also target another lineman early in the draft to ensure Patrick Mahomes has adequate protection.

Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew rounds out the offensive additions, providing experienced insurance behind Mahomes. Minshew expressed excitement about learning from Andy Reid and Mahomes, saying he knew Kansas City was where he wanted to be after being released by the Raiders.

Championship Blueprint

The Chiefs’ approach to roster building has been methodical and strategic. Rather than making splashy free agent signings, they’ve focused on retaining key contributors, addressing specific weaknesses, and maintaining financial flexibility.

This strategy allows them to enter the draft seeking the best player available rather than reaching out of desperation. With eight picks in the upcoming draft, the Chiefs have ample opportunity to add young talent to an already championship-caliber roster.

If key players like Pacheco, Rice, and Brown can stay healthy in 2025, and if the team hits on a few draft picks, the Chiefs will remain a serious threat to win an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl and extend their AFC West dominance to a tenth consecutive season.

The addition of cornerback Robert Rochelle on a one-year deal further demonstrates the team’s commitment to building depth. Though Rochelle played primarily on special teams for Green Bay last season, his 9.65 relative athletic score gives defensive backs coach Dave Merritt another talented player to develop.

Brett Veach and his staff have positioned the Chiefs perfectly for another championship run. The roster is balanced, the coaching staff is elite, and the culture of success is firmly established. While other teams make headlines with big-money signings, the Chiefs continue to build their dynasty brick by brick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Charles Omenihu sign a one-year deal instead of a long-term contract?

Omenihu likely didn’t receive the long-term offers he wanted in free agency due to his recent history. He played only 11 games in 2023 because of a suspension and missed significant time last season with an ACL tear. This one-year deal allows him to prove his value and potentially secure a larger contract next offseason.

Q: What is the Chiefs’ biggest roster concern heading into the 2025 season?

The left side of the offensive line remains the biggest question mark. With Joe Thuney traded to Chicago, the left guard position is uncertain. The team has options including Kingsley Suamataia, Mike Caliendo, and Hunter Nourzad, but none are proven at the NFL level. The Chiefs may address this need early in the draft.

Q: How might the Chiefs approach the running back position in the draft?

With Kareem Hunt and Elijah Mitchell on one-year deals and Isaiah Pacheco entering the final year of his rookie contract, the Chiefs will likely draft a running back. They could target physical backs like Quinshon Judkins, explosive playmakers like Dylan Sampson, versatile options like Treveon Henderson, or big-play threats like Kaleb Johnson depending on what style they prefer to complement their current roster.

Q: What makes Walter Nolen an attractive draft target for the Chiefs?

Nolen would be an ideal complement to Chris Jones on the interior defensive line. He recorded 6.5 sacks, 35 pressures, and 14 tackles for loss at Ole Miss last season while playing multiple positions along the defensive front. His explosive first step and aggressive play style fit Steve Spagnuolo’s defensive scheme, and pairing him with Jones would create significant problems for opposing offensive lines.

Q: How has the Chiefs’ approach to roster building contributed to their success?

The Chiefs have built their roster through a combination of smart drafting, strategic free agent signings, and player development rather than splashy, expensive acquisitions. This approach has allowed them to maintain financial flexibility while keeping their core intact. They’ve also excelled at finding undervalued players who fit their system and culture, maximizing their contributions while managing the salary cap effectively.