The Chiefs have named a candidate to sign a former Texans starter for $17 million.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ trade of L’Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans is finally official. Now the Chiefs can make some moves.
The Chiefs will use the additional $19.8 million in cash to address multiple positions, including defensive end, running back, and left tackle. However, Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report expects that Kansas City will bring back a familiar figure to assist replace Sneed.
Cornerback Steven Nelson, who the Chiefs selected in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft, is still available in free agency. Nelson has spent the last two seasons with the Houston Texans, and he helped turn the organization around last year.
In 2023, he had 63 total tackles, defended 12 passes, and intercepted four. In two playoff games, he recorded 12 total tackles, three passes defensed, and an 82-yard pick-six.
During his final season with the Chiefs in 2018, he has 68 total tackles, 15 passes defensed, and four interceptions. However, Nelson made critical statements about Kansas City following his departure, implying that the two sides would need to mend wounds before a possible return.
Spotrac.com estimates Nelson’s market worth to be $16.8 million over two years. However, given his age of 31, AtoZ Sports estimates that a one-year contract worth $7 million would suffice.
“Nelson is the best of the corners remaining on the market based on production,” stated Ballentine on March 30. “He contributed significantly to the Texans’ defensive performance last season, allowing a passer rating of only 73.3 on 70 targets.
“Nelson was a consistent starter on Lovie Smith’s defense in 2022 before switching to DeMeco Ryan’s system in 2023. His versatility could make him an appealing late-free-agent choice.
“The Kansas City Chiefs could be looking for a veteran to assist prepare a rookie for a larger role. They need to replace L’Jarius Sneed, and relying on an unproven player may not be the best option for a Super Bowl contender.
