The Kansas City Chiefs have secured the return of linebacker Drue Tranquill with a new three-year, $19 million contract, as disclosed by a source familiar with the agreement to The Associated Press on Thursday night.
The individual requested anonymity as the team had yet to announce the deal.
Tranquill joined the Chiefs last offseason after spending four years with the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite his late arrival, Tranquill emerged as a vital contributor to the Chiefs’ defense, registering 4 1/2 sacks and stepping up as a starter in the absence of Nick Bolton due to injury.
Turning 29 in August, Tranquill showcased his best performances during the playoffs. He tallied four tackles each in the wild-card and divisional rounds and made eight stops in the AFC championship game against Baltimore.
He contributed two assists in the Super Bowl, where the Chiefs secured their second consecutive Lombardi Trophy after a thrilling comeback.
“Unfinished business,” Tranquill expressed in a social media post on Thursday.
With a host of decisions to make regarding their defense, the Chiefs made a significant move earlier in the week by placing the franchise tag on L’Jarius Sneed.
Sneed, potentially one of the top cornerbacks in free agency, now faces the possibility of playing the next season under a $19.8 million deal with Kansas City if a long-term contract cannot be reached.
Alternatively, the Chiefs could explore trading him to another team in exchange for draft picks and cap relief.
Another major decision looms for Kansas City regarding All-Pro pass rusher Chris Jones, who has sought a long-term deal for the past two offseasons. Jones held out throughout the last offseason and missed the Chiefs’ Week 1 game against Detroit before ultimately signing a revised one-year agreement to return to the field.
Amidst these negotiations, the Chiefs also need to address other defensive positions. They must determine the future of safety. Mike Edwards played a significant role alongside Justin Reid after Bryan Cook’s season-ending injury.
Linebacker Willie Gay Jr. is set to become a free agent, having showcased exceptional athleticism for the Chiefs. Defensive linemen Tershawn Wharton, Derrick Nnadi, and Mike Danna are also heading toward free agency.
Amid these developments, securing Tranquill’s return solidifies the Chiefs’ defense as they aim for a third consecutive Super Bowl title.
