Among the candidates discussed is Drue Tranquill, whose potential release could save the Chiefs roughly $6 million. However, analysts at Pro Football Focus argue that Tranquill remains a valuable piece, highlighting his stability and production as a central defender for the Chiefs.
PFF’s assessment places Tranquill among the league’s higher-graded linebackers for the 2025 season, ranking No. 14 with an overall 76.2 grade. The evaluation notes that 2025 represented a career year for Tranquill, emphasizing his run-stopping prowess, low missed-tackle rate, and reliability as a starter for Kansas City over the past three seasons.
Last season, Tranquill totaled 103 tackles, two sacks, five quarterback pressures, one forced fumble, and one pass defended across 17 starts. Given the Chiefs’ other roster needs and potential holes to fill, maintaining stability at linebacker—especially with a one-year remaining on Tranquill’s contract—could influence their decision-making.
Kansas City also features standout linebacker Nick Bolton, who ranked higher on PFF’s list at No. 9 with a 78.9 grade. Bolton’s strong finish to the season, capped by a 91.1 overall grade from Week 9 onward, solidified him as the anchor of the unit. If the Chiefs lose strongside starter Leo Chenal to free agency, keeping Tranquill could be a pragmatic move to preserve depth and experience at linebacker. The team also has internal depth options, including Jeffrey Bassa, Jack Cochrane, Cole Christiansen, and Cooper McDonald, who could contribute if Chiefs decide to shift personnel.
