Five 2024 Defensive Free Agents the Kansas City Chiefs Should Target
This is the second part of the "free agents the Kansas City Chiefs should target" series. The first part about the offensive side of the ball can be found here.
With the NFL's legal tampering period and free agency quickly approaching, let's focus on some defensive options.
Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw
General manager Brett Veach has a history of taking swings on players with a first-round pedigree. Javon Kinlaw fits that bill. He had a disappointing start to his career in San Francisco, but the talent is still immense. Last year was his best season as a pro, so the hope is he can continue that growth. He won't cost too much, either. Kinlaw isn't going to be an every-down defensive tackle because of the struggles defending the run. However, he can be insurance as a backup three-technique if the Chiefs don't get one in the draft. Also, defensive line coach Joe Cullen has done an excellent job maximizing talents during his time in Kansas City.
Defensive end Josh Uche
Mike Danna is on his way out to free agency, and Charles Omenihu will likely not be ready for the start of the 2024-25 season. The Chiefs will have to add someone to the defensive end room, which now needs more depth. Josh Uche had 11.5 sacks in 2022; many thought that was his breakout season. His sack production regressed this past year, but his pressures were still in a good spot. Uche will be only 26 years old to start next season, so Kansas City can sign him to a multiyear contract to grow with the other young defensive ends in the room. Additionally, he can bring more speed and quickness off the edge for the Chiefs.
Defensive end A.J. Epenesa
Like Uche, A.J. Epenesa will turn 26 during the first month of next season and the Chiefs have shown a track record of signing younger free agents who hopefully have their best football ahead of them. Epenesa fits more of the traditional Steve Spagnuolo defensive end mold. His ability to play with power fits nicely into Kansas City's system. He was an extremely solid player throughout his rookie contract and finally saw the raw production catch up these last two years. His ability to be trusted to start across from George Karlaftis from day one could be massive, as the team is still determining Felix Anudike-Uzomah's development up to this point.
Cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting
It seems to be trending toward the Chiefs trading L'Jarius Sneed at some point during the offseason, presumably before free agency kicks off. While Kansas City has guys on the roster who have played in big games for them, it always helps to add veteran experience to the room. Sean Murphy-Bunting signed a one-year deal in Tennessee last offseason, betting on himself to cash in this offseason. With that said, things didn't play out as planned. He experienced more success in Todd Bowles's defensive system, similar to the one Spagnuolo runs in Kansas City. Adding veteran competition and depth to the corner room would be wise for the Chiefs.
Safety Jeremy Chinn
The Chiefs' safety room is set at the top. Their presumed starters will be Justin Reid and Bryan Cook, with Chamarri Conner continuing to grow as the third option. They likely still need one more guy, though, and Jeremy Chinn could fit in well. When Chinn first got into the league, he was a fascinating player because of his ability to be a hybrid safety and linebacker. With Spagnuolo liking to have players who can do multiple things, Chinn is an attractive option. He can line up in the box to help defend the run while keeping speed on the field, or he can play as a slot defender against tight ends. That's excellent versatility to have as a fourth safety.
