Making decisions in the NFL, particularly for a successful team like the Kansas City Chiefs, is rarely straightforward. As the two-time defending Super Bowl champions, the Chiefs face salary cap limitations and are unlikely to retain the exact same roster for the 2024 season. Acknowledging this, the franchise has granted one of its defensive stars the opportunity to explore a trade.
L’Jarius Sneed, the standout cornerback for the Chiefs, may be on the move this offseason after the team allowed him to seek a new opportunity. This decision comes shortly after reports surfaced that the Chiefs had placed their franchise tag on him, signaling a potential shift in the team’s defensive lineup. While it’s not a scenario desired by many within the Chiefs organization, it could indicate an impending extension for another key defensive player.
Despite speculation, the Chiefs had not officially applied the franchise tag to Sneed as of Wednesday, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport. Sneed, who has played all four of his professional seasons with Kansas City and contributed to their two Super Bowl victories, has until next Tuesday to be tagged, which would entail a one-year, $19.8 million deal for 2024. This deadline gives the Chiefs time to negotiate an extension with Sneed or explore trade options.
Just days ago, Sneed publicly expressed his desire for fair compensation from Chiefs general manager Brett Veach, but initial negotiations seem to have made little progress. Sneed is seeking a lucrative long-term contract that would position him among the highest-paid cornerbacks in the league. Meanwhile, defensive tackle Chris Jones is also anticipating a substantial contract extension. Considering Jones’ expressed commitment to remaining with the Chiefs, the franchise may prioritize negotiating with him if Sneed’s demands prove too high.
Speculation suggests potential interest in Sneed from the Philadelphia Eagles, the team the Chiefs defeated in Super Bowl LVII. The Eagles struggled defensively last season, particularly against the pass, but they may need to create additional cap space to accommodate Sneed’s salary expectations.
Additionally, the Detroit Lions, fresh from their NFC Championship Game appearance, could be eyeing Sneed for acquisition. With ample cap space and a desire for championship success, the Lions could entice Sneed to bolster their pass defense, which struggled in 2023.
If Sneed’s decision ultimately hinges on financial considerations, the Arizona Cardinals emerge as a logical destination. With a need for a top-tier cornerback and a proactive approach to addressing positional weaknesses, coupled with significant cap space, the Cardinals should be well-positioned to meet Sneed’s salary demands
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