Chiefs can capitalize on Browns' quarterback dysfunction with pending free agent Carson Wentz in their sights

According to Fowler, should Falcons QB Kirk Cousins be released, Cleveland would be interested. Former Giants QB Daniel Jones was another name mentioned as on their radar. One note is of particular interest to Chiefs fans, though. 

"Another name to watch here is Carson Wentz," Fowler wrote.

This should come as no shock, as Chiefs HC Andy Reid and others in the organization touted Wentz as an NFL starter before his start in Week 18 against the Denver Broncos. 

“Listen, I’m one of his (Carson Wentz) biggest fans, so I liked him coming out, I liked what he did before he was banged up there in Philly (Philadelphia) and I liked what I saw last year from him for sure with his start with the Rams. I like what I’ve seen here which is – I’m glad I’ve had the opportunity to see him here," Chiefs HC Andy Reid said. "Selfishly, I’d like to keep him, but I don’t think that’s going to be possible. He should be starting in the league somewhere. That’s what he should be doing by his ability and the way he goes about his business. He’s so structured and disciplined that – his study habits and work (ethic), you know, all of those things are just top notch.”

Although that game didn't go as planned for Wentz, Cleveland's interest in Wentz could be big news for Kansas City. 

Even if Wentz doesn't go out and sign a massive multi-year contract with the Browns (or another team, for that matter), the Chiefs could still benefit and receive a top 2026 compensatory pick.

While annual average salary is a significant part of the compensatory draft pick equation, playing time and accolades could play a role here as well. If Wentz were to start in place of Watson and perform well, he could do enough where a high comp pick for the Chiefs isn't out of the question. 

Remember that Browns HC Kevin Stefanski is only one season removed (2023) from earning NFL Coach of the Year honors from the Associated Press. It's not outside of the realm of possibilities that he could coach up Wentz and Cleveland to a competitive and successful season. 

The Chiefs aren't expected to be overly active in the outside free agent market themselves. They have 19 pending free agents, several of whom could earn qualifying compensatory contracts with other NFL teams. A situation where Wentz qualifies only strengthens the team's chances of earning multiple compensatory picks in 2026, and they're going to need it with contracts for the 2022 NFL draft class coming due.

A Wentz departure raises the question: Who would be the Chiefs' backup quarterback in 2025?

Mahomes and Chris Oladokun are the only two quarterbacks under contract. Is this finally the year they turn to the NFL draft to invest in the backup quarterback position behind No. 15? Will they take up Jameis Winston on his offer? We'll find out more about their plan in the coming days when free agency ramps up.