TL;DR
- * Kansas City Chiefs started 2025 with two losses but improved to 5-3, needing enhancements.
- * Team seeks running back help due to Isiah Pacheco's knee sprain and Kareem Hunt's role.
- * Defensive tackle depth is a priority to boost the Chiefs' pass rush.
- * Potential trade targets include Alvin Kamara, Chuba Hubbard, Breece Hall, Sebastian Joseph-Day, T'Vondre Sweat, and Davon Godchaux.
The Kansas City Chiefs kicked off its 2025 campaign in an unusual fashion, dropping back-to-back contests. This led many to question if the dynasty's reign was concluding, yet the Chiefs subsequently achieved a 5-1 record over their subsequent six contests, bringing them to a 5-3 standing as Week 9 approached.
The Kansas City team is steering itself back on course, though further enhancements are necessary to overcome the division-leading Denver Broncos. The Chiefs are in need of running back assistance, given that their starter, Isiah Pacheco, is managing a knee sprain, and Kareem Hunt is primarily utilized for short-yardage plays. Kansas City's other primary requirement is depth at defensive tackle, aiming to invigorate their pass rush.
Ahead of the 2025 deadline, here are the six premier trade possibilities for The Chiefs.
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Alvin Kamara, Running Back, New Orleans Saints
The Chiefs could consider acquiring Alvin Kamara as a veteran player. Selected in the third round of the 2017 draft, he's recognized as a versatile running back adept at both carrying the ball and catching passes. Kamara, aged 30, has faced difficulties initiating his 2025 season, holding a 1-7 record New Orleans Saints.
Although Kamara might be nearing the end of his career, he'd serve as a dependable, temporary choice for Kansas City. His current contract extends through the 2026 season.
MORE: Why did the Saints hire Kellen Moore?
Carolina Panthers Running Back, Chuba Hubbard
The Carolina Panthers suddenly have a two-headed monster in the backfield with Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle. Carolina's sole challenge lies in identifying an effective approach for deploying both running backs. A prevailing sentiment suggests the Panthers ought to retain Dowdle, whose recent performance has markedly improved, and release Hubbard.
The Oklahoma State product is in the fifth year of his NFL career. He recently inked a four-year deal with Carolina, keeping him under contract until the 2028 season, thus giving Kansas City a more extended choice.
New York Jets' Running Back, Breece Hall
Chiefs supporters probably hope the team pursues Hall. The running back is in the final year of his rookie deal so would likely need an extension unless Kansas City was interested in him as just a half-season rental.
Hall leads the New York Jets with 581 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground. This is over 200 yards and an additional touchdown beyond Pacheco's total. Hall also has 178 receiving yards. Given his expiring contract, acquiring him from the 1-7 Jets likely won't demand excessive draft capital, and he could provide a vital spark to the offense.
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Titans DT Sebastian Joseph-Day
Kansas City also requires more depth on the defensive line. The Tennessee Titans are 1-7, and reports have suggested that they are open to trading anyone that is not named Cam Ward or Jeffrey Simmons. As the Titans are available for trade, Simmons would be the primary target, but if acquiring him isn't feasible, Kansas City must then consider their alternative defensive tackle options.
Sebastian Joseph-Day plays end in Tennessee's 3-4, but he could fill in there or in the middle for Kansas City. The type of player that the Chiefs need on the interior is a competent depth piece, and that's what Joseph-Day is.
MORE: Why did the Titans fire Mike Vrabel?
Titans DT T'Vondre Sweat
Like his current teammate, Sweat would be a solid depth piece for Kansas City. He is listed at 6-foot-4, 366 lbs, and would be a strong run-stopper to add to the defensive line alongside the shifty Chris Jones. Sweat has only six solo tackles this season, but two of them are sacks. He is in the second year of his rookie deal, so he would likely cost a mid-round pick to acquire, but he is another player Kansas City could develop.
MORE: Why did the Titans fire Brian Callahan?
Godchaux, Saints DT
While the New Orleans Saints haven't publicly stated they're seeking a sale, the indications are clear. The Saints are 1-7 and could start unloading pieces. While teams are more interested in their wide receivers, New Orleans could part with Davon Godchaux.
The defensive tackle is 30 years old and is in the first year of a two-year deal. He is more of a run stopper than someone who gets to the quarterback, but is still below his typical production through eight games this season.