UPDATE: Chiefs Engage in Talks Over Blockbuster Trade for Elite Wide Receiver With AFC Rival
The Kansas City Chiefs reportedly pursued a star wide receiver to enhance their offensive arsenal, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
Following the Pittsburgh Steelers' significant trade, which saw star wideout Diontae Johnson move to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for cornerback Donte Jackson and draft picks, insights emerged regarding the Chiefs' involvement in discussions with the Steelers. NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo revealed on "NFL Total Access" that the Chiefs engaged in talks with the Steelers about acquiring Johnson. However, the Steelers expressed a preference for not trading Johnson within the conference, particularly to a formidable contender like Kansas City.
Johnson played a pivotal role in the Steelers' offense since 2020, delivering four consecutive seasons with 50-plus catches and over 700 receiving yards. His standout performance in 2021, where he amassed 107 receptions for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns, underscored his significance to the team.
Despite Johnson's contributions, the emergence of George Pickens as the Steelers' primary wide receiver in 2023 led the organization to deem Johnson expendable. Consequently, the 27-year-old wideout heads to Carolina, a team that struggled with the league's worst record in 2023 (2-15), despite acquiring first overall pick Bryce Young.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs parted ways with Marques Valdes-Scantling in a move aimed at clearing salary cap space, and Super Bowl 58 standout Mecole Hardman is now a free agent. With most top free agent wide receivers already off the market, attention turns to how head coach Andy Reid and his team will address the position to support quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
| POLL | ||
13 MARS | 79 ANSWERS UPDATE: Chiefs Engage in Talks Over Blockbuster Trade for Elite Wide Receiver With AFC Rival Are the Chiefs still the best team in the NFL? | ||
| Yes | 39 | 49.4 % |
| No | 40 | 50.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
