Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce watch eagerly as Chiefs make a free agency splash

Buoyed by the news that legendary tight end Travis Kelce is returning in 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs have every intention of fortifying a team that once again was good enough to win the AFC...but was obviously second-best during its heavy Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last month.

It was not an easy decision for Kelce to return; the 35-year-old endured the worst statistical season of his career in 2024, but the image he left in New Orleans disgusted him. That mindset has inspired quarterback Patrick Mahomes to work harder than ever this offseason in an effort to return to the NFL summit next February. The rest of the work might have to be done by the Chiefs' well-regarded front office...and they are off to a good start.

Jaylon Moore: $30 million to solve Mahomes' biggest problem

The Chiefs on Monday wasted little time in upgrading its offensive line, a group that the Eagles exposed ruthlessly during Super Bowl LIX. Kansas City reached agreement with free agent left tackle Jaylon Moore on a two-year, $30 million contract, in hopes that the former San Francisco 49er can shore up Mahomes' blind spot and offer him more protection in the pocket.

Over the past three seasons, Moore has allowed only four sacks; in his entire career, Moore has allowed just 31 pressures across more than 750 snaps. Mahomes suffered a career-worst 36 sacks in 2024, a long-festering problem that was masked by Kansas City's fantastic record in close games. Moore's arrival should offer stability at a premium position, befitting the Chiefs' premium quarterback.

In addition to landing Moore, the Chiefs decided to take a shot on running back Elijah Mitchell, in a bid to boost their options in the backfield. Mitchell has signed a one-year contract with Kansas City as he tries to overcome two years of injury issues in a stable, winning environment; as a rookie with the 49ers back in 2021, Mitchell rushed for 963 yards and five touchdowns, but he has played only 16 games in the three seasons since.

The Chiefs came away from the opening day of "free agent frenzy" with two usable pieces that will boost their depth and solidify two problem areas on offense. Kansas City has re-signed receiver Marquise "Hollywood" Brown as well, hoping that the former Oklahoma Sooner will stay healthy and reach the potential he has teased throughout his career. With another good draft from general manager Brett Veach, the Chiefs will enter 2025 confident of returning to the Super Bowl...and possibly sending Kelce out on a high note.