Former starters such as safety Bryan Cook, linebacker Leo Chenal, and cornerback Jaylen Watson have all found new teams. The Chiefs also had to release defensive end Mike Danna and offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor, as well as restructure quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ contract, to enable them to sign new free agents.
In addition to Mahomes, Kansas City has a lot of big contracts on the books, such as defensive tackle Chris Jones, offensive linemen Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith, and defensive end George Karlaftis. When dealing with the salary cap, general manager Brett Veach has to consider not just what’s best for this season, but future ones ahead.
DB Chamarri Conner Labeled as Kansas City Chiefs’ Most Underpaid Player
Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report took a stab at naming every NFL team’s most underpaid player following the first wave of free agency. His selection of Connor might surprise a lot of Chiefs fans, but here’s what he had to say about it:
“The 2023 fourth-round pick moved into a full-time starting role and generally excelled with a couple sacks, a pick and some good moments in coverage in 2026. He’s on a good track, and he’s wrapping up a four-year, $4.6 million entry-level deal.”
Conner recently received a significant performance-based pay bonus of $1,150,312 million for the production he put up last season. In 2025 he recorded 117 total tackles, one interception, two passes defended, and two sacks in 17 games.
Conner’s three-year tenure in Kansas City has been inconsistent. His natural position is at safety, where he has thrived the most. However, the Chiefs’ coaching staff has been puzzlingly adamant with playing him at nickel cornerback, which he has struggled mightily at.
Perhaps the free agent addition of nickel corner Kader Kohou will allow Conner to focus on playing safety exclusively in 2026. If that happens and Conner thrives, he could earn a solid contract for himself in 2027, whether it’s from the Chiefs or another team.
Other Potential Contract Extension Candidates for the Chiefs
GettyChiefs WR Rashee Rice
The biggest name on Kansas City’s roster who is entering the final year of his deal is wide receiver Rashee Rice. However, it is unlikely the Chiefs give him an extension considering his off-the-field troubles. They may not even be able to count on him for the 2026 season.
It’s make or break time for defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah, who was the Chiefs’ first-round draft pick in 2023. Injuries, veterans playing ahead of him, and being slow to develop have all contributed to Anudike-Uzomah’s time in Kansas City being a failure thus far. If he can find a way to put it all together and breakout in 2026, the Chiefs could keep him around.
Other notable names entering the final year of their contracts are linebacker Drue Tranquill, offensive lineman Jaylon Moore, and cornerback Kristian Fulton. On a similar note, tight end Travis Kelce and wide receiver Tyquan Thornton are on new one-year deals in 2026. Guys to keep an eye on to possibly receive extensions down the line include offensive linemen Kingsley Suamataia and Josh Simmons, as well as wide receiver Xavier Worthy.
