The Kansas City Chiefs are in a peculiar position as they approach the 2026 NFL season. While they've traditionally been a force to be reckoned with, the team's recent struggles and the loss of Patrick Mahomes to a season-ending injury have left them vulnerable. The Chiefs' defense, in particular, has been a concern, and the organization is now looking to bolster their edge rushers. The question remains: who should they sign?
One name that immediately comes to mind is Derek Barnett. A first-round pick by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2017, Barnett has spent the last three years in the AFC South, primarily as a backup. However, his performance in 2025 was impressive, with five sacks, 10 quarterback hits, and eight tackles for loss, despite not starting a single game. Barnett's ability to contribute as a rotational player makes him an attractive option for the Chiefs.
What makes Barnett particularly intriguing is his age. At 30, he is still relatively young and has the potential to be a consistent contributor for years to come. His experience and proven track record make him a reliable option, especially for a team like the Chiefs, which has traditionally valued veteran leadership. However, some may argue that Barnett's lack of starting experience could be a concern, and his performance in 2025 may have been a product of the Texans' scheme rather than his own ability.
Personally, I think the Chiefs should consider signing Barnett. His ability to contribute as a rotational player and his age make him an attractive option. However, I also believe that the Chiefs should be cautious in their approach. While Barnett's performance in 2025 was impressive, it is important to consider the context in which it occurred. The Texans' scheme may have played a significant role in his success, and it is unclear whether he would be able to replicate that performance in a different system.
One thing that immediately stands out is the Chiefs' need for a reliable edge rusher. With the departure of Cameron Jordan and the uncertainty surrounding Jadeveon Clowney, the team is in a vulnerable position. Barnett's ability to contribute as a rotational player could be a significant boost to the defense, and his age makes him a long-term solution. However, the Chiefs should also consider the potential risks and be prepared to adapt their strategy if necessary.
In my opinion, the Chiefs should sign Barnett, but they should also be prepared to make adjustments if needed. The team's defense has been a concern for some time, and the addition of a reliable edge rusher could be a significant step forward. However, the Chiefs should also be mindful of the potential risks and be prepared to adapt their strategy if necessary. The team's success in the 2026 season will depend on their ability to address their weaknesses and make strategic decisions, and the signing of Barnett could be a crucial part of that process.
