The Kansas City Chiefs have once again found themselves at the center of offseason trade speculation, with ESPN proposing two potential moves that could address key roster needs before the 2026 season. One scenario would send a 2027 third-round pick to the Chicago Bears for tight end Cole Kmet and a 2027 fifth-round pick. Another would see Kansas City acquire New York Giants pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux for a 2027 fourth-round selection. While neither deal is currently being negotiated, the proposals have sparked discussion about whether general manager Brett Veach should pursue outside help before training camp.
Which teams are interested in Cole Kmet and Kayvon Thibodeaux?
The Chiefs are the only team directly connected to either player in the ESPN simulation, but both names fit areas where Kansas City could use reinforcement. Kmet would address concerns behind Travis Kelce. Although Kelce remains one of the league's premier offensive weapons, the depth chart behind him is far less proven. Noah Gray has shown flashes, while Jared Wiley remains an unknown at the NFL level. Adding Kmet would give Kansas City another reliable blocker and pass catcher, particularly if Andy Reid continues emphasizing a more balanced offensive approach.
Thibodeaux fills a different need. The Chiefs have invested heavily in young edge rushers over recent drafts, yet questions remain about consistent pass-rush production opposite their established veterans. A player with Thibodeaux's pedigree could offer upside in a rotational role while providing another pass-rushing option for defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.
What insiders are saying about the trade rumors
ESPN's Ben Solak proposed both deals as part of a league-wide trade market exercise. Regarding Kmet, Solak argued that Kansas City has a significant need at tight end behind Kelce and could benefit from adding a more traditional in-line blocker. He also pointed to Kmet's familiarity with Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. On Thibodeaux, Solak suggested Kansas City could take another swing on a former first-round talent. However, Arrowhead Pride's Ron Kopp Jr. questioned whether the Giants could realistically command a Day 2 pick for a player who has largely been a rotational contributor outside of his standout 11.5-sack campaign.
Contract details and salary cap implications
Both players remain under team control, which adds value from Kansas City's perspective. Neither player is known to have a no-trade clause that would complicate a potential move. Kmet's contract would provide cost certainty at a position where the Chiefs may soon need to prepare for life after Kelce. Thibodeaux's deal also offers flexibility, though Kansas City would need to determine whether his production justifies the financial commitment and draft capital required. The Chiefs currently have enough roster flexibility to absorb either contract, but every move would need to fit within Veach's long-term cap planning.
How the trade could impact both teams
A Kmet acquisition would likely have a more immediate impact. It would allow Kansas City to use multiple tight-end formations more frequently while reducing the workload on Kelce during the regular season. For Chicago, adding another third-round selection could create additional draft flexibility as the franchise continues building around its young core.
A Thibodeaux trade would be more about upside. Kansas City would be betting on Spagnuolo's ability to unlock the former fifth-overall pick's potential, while the Giants would gain future draft assets and additional roster flexibility. At this stage, both proposals remain hypothetical. Still, they highlight the areas where the Chiefs could look for reinforcements as another Super Bowl chase begins to take shape.
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About the Author
Barsha Dutta has been covering the NFL since 2024, bringing a fresh and engaging perspective to the game. With a Masters in Literature, she blends passion with insight, making football stories both relatable and exciting for readers. When she is not writing about the gridiron, Barsha enjoys tending to her garden and immersing herself in the world of K-pop. She also occasionally covers entertainment and pop culture news. With her unique mix of interests, she connects sports fans to the NFL in a way that feels both personal and vibrant.
