Chiefs Explore Wide Receiver Trade Options After Offensive Struggles

Following a game with only 11 first downs, the Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly calling teams to acquire a wide receiver before the trade deadline.

The Kansas City Chiefs scored only three points in a Sunday night loss to the Seattle Seahawks, marking just the second time in Patrick Mahomes’ career his team was held to three or fewer points. The offense recorded 11 first downs, the lowest total in Mahomes’ 153 starts, and averaged 4.3 yards per play. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the team has been calling around to explore adding a wide receiver before the trade deadline.

Injuries have significantly impacted the Kansas City roster, as the team played without starting tackles Josh Simmons and Jaylon Moore, as well as receivers Tyquan Thornton and Rashee Rice. Rice has missed 27 of 43 possible games since the start of 2024 due to injury or suspension. Additionally, 2024 first-round pick Xavier Worthy dropped a pass in Week 7 and has struggled on downfield routes. Despite these issues, the Chiefs currently rank fifth in offensive EPA per play and fourth in defensive EPA per play through seven weeks.

Analyst Ben Solak proposed several hypothetical trade targets for the 5-1 Chiefs, including Brian Thomas Jr. of the Jaguars, George Pickens of the Cowboys, and Dontayvion Wicks of the Eagles. Other potential options mentioned include Devaughn Vele of the Saints and Garrett Wilson of the Jets. General manager Brett Veach has a history of mid-season moves, having executed at least one in-season trade every year from 2020 to 2024.