The Kansas City Chiefs made a strategic move on Wednesday by parting ways with wide receiver Marques Valdes-Scantling, effectively bolstering their salary cap situation.
Despite his memorable touchdown in Super Bowl LVIII, Valdes-Scantling’s release was a necessary step, providing approximately $12 million in much-needed cap relief.
This additional financial flexibility was crucial for the Chiefs, who still find themselves approximately $9.6 million over the 2024 salary cap, as reported by Spotrac. However, this remains insufficient considering the 19 unrestricted free agents the team needs to address in the offseason, including key players such as Chris Jones, L’Jarius Sneed, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
Valdes-Scantling’s departure could signal further roster adjustments. Let’s examine two more Chiefs players who might soon face the chopping block.
Kadarius Toney, WR
The acquisition of wide receiver Kadarius Toney from the New York Giants in 2022 raised expectations for his performance in Kansas City. With a standout rookie performance of 189 yards, there was optimism about his potential alongside Patrick Mahomes.
However, Toney failed to live up to expectations, delivering lackluster results in the 2023 season with just 27 receptions for 169 yards and a touchdown across 13 games. His low production and a passer rating of 66.7 when targeted raise concerns about his effectiveness within the Chiefs’ offense.
Injuries further complicated Toney’s tenure, sidelining him for multiple games and ultimately leading to his absence from the Super Bowl roster. With a $2.5 million cap hit heading into his fourth NFL season, the Chiefs may consider parting ways with Toney to free up cap space, especially if they’re uncertain about exercising his fifth-year option.
Charles Omenihu, DE
After signing a two-year, $16 million contract with the Chiefs in the previous offseason, veteran defensive end Charles Omenihu showed promise with career-high statistics in sacks (7.0) and solo tackles (18) during the 2023 season. However, his campaign was cut short by an ACL injury sustained in the AFC Championship Game, sidelining him for the Super Bowl and potentially impacting his availability for the upcoming season.
Given the uncertainty surrounding Omenihu’s recovery timeline and the significant $7.2 million cap relief that could be gained through his release or trade, the Chiefs may opt to part ways with the veteran defensive end. This move could provide the team with additional resources to address roster needs, whether through free agency signings or retaining key players like Chris Jones.
While Omenihu’s tenure in Kansas City has been brief, his future with the team remains uncertain amidst cap considerations and injury concerns.
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