Five former Kansas City Chiefs have hit free agency, showcasing their skills for potential suitors. With their experience and talent, they’re poised to make significant impacts wherever they land in the NFL landscape.
In the high-octane world of the NFL, the off-season can be just as thrilling as the regular games, with player trades and free agency signings making headlines. But in the midst of all the wheeling and dealing, some players unexpectedly find themselves without a team. Today, we delve into the curious case of five former Kansas City Chiefs players who, against all odds, are still available for hire.
The Unpredictable Free Agency of Blake Bell
The Kansas City Chiefs, a team renowned for its tight end prowess, boasts one of the NFL’s greatest in Travis Kelce. Despite his age, Kelce continues to dominate the field, overshadowing the achievements of his teammates, including Blake Bell.
Known more for his blocking than his receiving, Bell, a seasoned ten-year veteran, remains surprisingly unsigned. His experience in high-pressure situations could make him a valuable asset for any team seeking depth in their tight end roster.
Jerick McKinnon: A Specialist in Limbo
Once a pivotal part of the Chiefs’ offensive strategy, Jerick McKinnon has seen better days. In 2022, he dazzled fans with nine touchdowns and over five hundred receiving yards.
However, his performance dipped dramatically the following year, leaving him with reduced playtime and modest stats. Despite the decline, McKinnon’s specialized skills as a pass-catching running back could be a bargain for teams looking for an experienced player to enhance their offensive playbook.
Blaine Gabbert: From Backup to Free Agent
Blaine Gabbert’s journey through the NFL has been that of a reliable backup. With twelve seasons under his belt and stints with six different teams, Gabbert has amassed a respectable career, including two Super Bowl wins.
His most recent performance with the Chiefs demonstrated his ability to manage games effectively, even without flashy statistics. Given his vast experience and mentoring potential, it’s perplexing that he hasn’t been snapped up as a veteran presence for teams nurturing young quarterbacks.
Mecole Hardman: A Comeback Story Waiting to Happen
Mecole Hardman’s career trajectory has been a rollercoaster. After a disappointing stint with the New York Jets, a trade back to Kansas City rekindled his potential. Despite limited opportunities, he made significant plays during the Super Bowl, proving his ability to perform on the biggest stage. Hardman’s experience and speed, though not as explosive as in his early days, could make him a valuable addition for teams in need of depth and experience in their wide receiver corps.
Donovan Smith: A Veteran Lineman Overlooked
Donovan Smith, after spending eight solid seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and a year with the Chiefs, finds himself without a team. Despite his experience and contributions to two Super Bowl-winning teams, penalties have marred his reputation, making teams hesitant to sign him as a starter. However, his experience could be invaluable, especially as a backup who can provide stability and depth.
Why These Chiefs Remain Unsigned
The free agency market can often be unpredictable, influenced by factors ranging from salary cap constraints to younger talent pushing through the ranks. For veterans like Bell, McKinnon, Gabbert, Hardman, and Smith, their journey in the NFL is at a crossroads. Teams looking to bolster their rosters would do well to consider the experience and resilience these players bring. As the new season approaches, it remains to be seen where these talented individuals will end up, but one thing is clear: they still have plenty to offer.
