The Kansas City Chiefs, facing a disappointing 6-11 finish in the 2025 season, are reportedly considering signing Pro Bowl cornerback Nahshon Wright as they look to rebuild their defense. This possibility arises soon after the Chiefs traded defensive back Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams in the offseason, amid efforts to strengthen their secondary.
Chiefs Consider Wright as Cornerback Option After McDuffie Move
The Chiefs suffered a significant setback during the 2025 season, missing the playoffs and grappling with the aftermath of a Super Bowl hangover. Their decision to trade Trent McDuffie, a key defensive back, to the Rams was part of a broader strategy to revamp their roster. This move opens a path for free agents like Nahshon Wright, who could fill the void in their defensive backfield.
Nahshon Wright’s Journey and 2025 Breakout Performance
Nahshon Wright’s ascent in the NFL was unexpected but notable in 2025, when he earned a Pro Bowl nomination after a strong season with the Chicago Bears. A third-round pick in 2021, Wright spent his early career with the Dallas Cowboys for three seasons before brief time with the Minnesota Vikings practice squad. He then signed with the Bears after being released by the Vikings, initially slated as a backup.
Due to injuries within Chicago’s secondary, Wright was thrust into a starting role and capitalized on the opportunity. Jacob Infante of PFSN identified the Chiefs, along with the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers, as potential destinations for Wright in the upcoming free agency period. Infante emphasized that Wright’s
high-end ball skills will get him a starting job somewhere in 2026.
Analyzing Wright’s 2025 Season Metrics
In the 2025 season, Wright completed a career-high 17 games, demonstrating his durability and playmaking ability by recording 11 passes defensed, 2 forced fumbles, 5 interceptions, and a quarterback hit. He registered a 74.6 score on PFSN’s CB Impact metrics, placing him 61st among cornerbacks. His ability to create turnovers was a significant factor for the Bears, contributing to their 11-win season.
However, Wright’s performance showed inconsistencies. Infante noted that
Wright was hardly consistent in 2025; he allowed 8 touchdowns in coverage, drew 8 penalties, and allowed 64.5% of his targets to be completed. That said, he uses his frame and long wingspan to regularly make plays on the ball.
Chiefs’ Secondary Receives Shake-Up Ahead of 2026 Season
The Chiefs’ defensive backfield is expected to look substantially different after recent roster changes. In addition to trading McDuffie for multiple draft picks, Kansas City faces uncertainty with upcoming free agency moves involving Bryan Cook and Jaylen Watson. Wright’s size, veteran presence, and ball skills could make him an appealing fit in defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s scheme.
PFSN’s Defense Impact metrics ranked the Chiefs 11th overall in 2025, with a score of 79.4, suggesting they remain competitive despite recent struggles. Whether they prioritize the acquisition of Nahshon Wright during free agency will be a key decision in shaping their defensive outlook for the 2026 campaign.
