3 Free Agents the Chiefs Need to Target to Get Back to the Super Bowl

The Kansas City Chiefs are fresh off capturing their first Super Bowl victory in 50 years, and most would argue that they're the odds-on favorites to hoist the Lombardi Trophy again next season.

However, they have a bevy of players set to hit the open market in a few months, including defensive standouts Chris Jones, Bashaud Breeland and Kendall Fuller. Therefore, the organization's brass will have their work cut out for them this offseason.

What better way to combat that impending headache than to spend big on other players? Let's highlight some free agents that Kansas City should target outside the organization in case they can't retain their current studs.

3. DT DJ Reader

Texans DT DJ Reader celebrating a sack against the Panthers / Bob Levey/Getty Images

Yes, the Chiefs would love nothing more than to retain superstar Chris Jones in free agency, and, after winning the Super Bowl, he probably feels the same way. However, nothing is guaranteed and Jones will have a mob of suitors lining up this offseason. At 25 years old, the Mississippi State product is going to get PAID. Which brings us to Texans defensive tackle DJ Reader, whose PFF grade from 2019 came in at an impressive 85.5. The former fifth-round pick (No.166 overall) back in 2016 is one of the league's most accomplished run stuffers, and we all know how good Jones is at gobbling up holes for opposing running backs.

2. LB Cory Littleton

Linebacker Cory Littleton was outstanding for the Rams in 2019. / Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images

Outside of Aaron Donald, Littleton was the most consistent player on the Rams defense that failed miserably to live up to its billing in 2019. One could argue that he's the best cover linebacker in the NFL, and is fresh off registering 134 combined tackles, 2 interceptions, 3.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles (4 recoveries), and 9 passes defended. Over the last two campaigns, Littleton has posted a staggering 90.6 coverage grade. Kansas City has no reason not to pursue the 26-year-old.

1. CB Byron Jones

Cowboys CB Byron Jones would be a welcomed addition to the Chiefs secondary / Patrick Smith/Getty Images

As previously stated, the Chiefs will need to shore up their secondary with Breeland and Fuller slated for free agency. In truth, you could make the case for KC signing either one of Byron Jones or Chris Harris Jr., but the former is three years younger. Jones took a step back in 2019 after finishing 2018 with a 80.4 grade (according to Pro Football Focus), good for the 14th-best coverage grade in the league, but that was to be expected. The UConn product is experienced at both the cornerback and safety positions, and is equally comfortable and efficient in man and zone packages. Simply put, Jones is one of the top defenders on the market this offseason, and the Chiefs should absolutely seek him out.