The Kansas City Chiefs offense is going to look a little different in 2023. Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy has taken the same title with the Washington Commanders but will have an expanded role in play calling and the offensive game plan. Matt Nagy will be taking over as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator.
In addition to the coaching staff, the team’s personnel could be changed as well. JuJu Smith-Schuster, Mecole Hardman and Justin Watson are all hitting free agency. It sounds like Hardman is the likeliest to depart, while the team will try and retain Smith-Schuster but he may have priced himself out of town.
The Chiefs also have second-round pick Skyy Moore and Kadarius Toney, who was acquired via trade from the New York Giants, ready to take on larger roles in the offense. Both have shown flashes, which could lead to Kansas City looking at other veteran options.
One player who could be on their radar is DJ Chark. An NFL scout that spoke to NFL Analysis Network believes the Chiefs will be in on the 2018 second-round pick out of LSU.
“One guy to watch in Kansas City could be DJ Chark. The Chiefs have interest in him, especially if JuJu Smith-Schuster walks in free agency. Even if he doesn’t leave, the Chiefs could beef up their offense with Chark.”
Chark would bring some big-play ability to the team as he averaged 16.7 yards per reception last season with the Detroit Lions. It would be a peculiar addition given the fact that the Chiefs already have Marquez Valdes-Scantling signed and capable of filling a similar role in the offense.
But, you can never have too much speed on offense and Chark would certainly bring more of that to the table. He has struggled to stay on the field throughout his professional career, missing at least one game every season and multiple in four out of five campaigns.
His skill set differs from Smith-Schuster, so plugging him into that spot in the offense would likely lead to some adjustments needing to be made. If the Chiefs are seeking someone who can more closely replicate what Smith-Schuster brought to the table, Allen Lazard would be a cleaner fit.
