The Kansas City Chiefs are in the process of freeing up salary cap space ahead of the upcoming free agency period, which is just weeks away. While the team has already restructured Patrick Mahomes’ contract and released Mike Danna to create financial flexibility, new reports suggest they might reconsider releasing linebacker Drue Tranquill due to his impressive recent performance.
Drue Tranquill Ranks Among Top Linebackers of 2025 Season
The Chiefs have been exploring roster adjustments to prepare for free agency, with speculation rising that Drue Tranquill could be cut to save nearly $6 million. Yet, Pro Football Focus (PFF) recently highlighted Tranquill as one of the highest-graded linebackers for the 2025 NFL season, ranking him 14th overall with a 76.2 grade. Mason Cameron of PFF provided an in-depth analysis of Tranquill’s contributions:
“Tranquill has been a steady and stable presence at the heart of the Chiefs’ defense for the past three seasons. 2025 marked a career year for Tranquill, who posted new high marks as a run defender, with his 89.4 PFF grade ranking sixth among qualifying linebackers. He also recorded the lowest missed tackle percentage (3.6%) among linebackers with at least 100 tackle attempts.”
During last season, Tranquill started 17 games and accumulated 103 total tackles, two sacks, five quarterback pressures, one forced fumble, and one pass defended. This level of production makes it difficult for the Chiefs to part ways with him, especially as they address multiple roster needs moving forward.
Nick Bolton Also Stands Out Among Top Linebackers
In addition to Tranquill’s strong showing, Nick Bolton achieved an even higher standing on the PFF list, ranking 9th with a 78.9 overall grade. Bolton’s standout season followed a major contract extension last offseason. His performance was outlined as follows:
“After the Chiefs awarded him a lucrative extension last offseason, Bolton responded by churning out the best season of his young career. Although he started slow, Bolton rose to the upper echelon of NFL defenders in the back half of the year, with his 91.1 PFF overall grade from Week 9 through the end of the season standing as the highest mark by any linebacker.”
Bolton’s 2025 campaign included 154 total tackles, one sack, 11 quarterback pressures, one forced fumble, six passes defended, and one interception over 17 starts. His tackle count was the highest he has achieved in three years. Secured by a three-year, $45 million contract extension, Bolton is firmly established as the Chiefs’ starting middle linebacker. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has even compared Bolton to Patrick Mahomes in terms of influence on the defense.
Roster Considerations Surrounding Linebacker Positions
The Chiefs may face the departure of their strongside linebacker, Leo Chenal, who is expected to hit free agency. Should Chenal leave, retaining Tranquill becomes a more pressing priority for the team, as he still has one year remaining on his deal. Kansas City also has potential replacements in the wings, including Jeffrey Bassa, a fifth-round draft pick last year who could step into Chenal’s starting role if needed.
Additional depth at linebacker includes veterans Jack Cochrane and Cole Christiansen, as well as second-year player Cooper McDonald. The presence of these players helps the Chiefs maintain flexibility while balancing their salary cap and roster needs.
As the Chiefs weigh their options in the coming weeks, the strong performances by both Drue Tranquill and Nick Bolton may influence decisions regarding the future of the linebacker group. Keeping Tranquill could provide Kansas City with consistency and proven ability within their defense, a valuable asset as they aim to strengthen their roster heading into the next NFL season.
