Wide receiver Keenan Allen #13 of the Chicago Bears
Chiefs Eyeing Veteran Wide Receiver to Bolster Offense?
The Kansas City Chiefs‘ need for a reliable wide receiver is no secret. Even with Patrick Mahomes under center, Kansas City’s lack of playmakers at the position became glaringly obvious throughout the 2024 season. If the Chiefs want to remain atop the NFL, adding a dependable pass-catcher is a must.
The challenge? Limited salary cap space could restrict their options in free agency. However, some intriguing veteran receivers may be available at a reasonable price, and Ian Valentino of The 33rd Team believes Keenan Allen could be the perfect fit.
Could Allen Be the Answer?
“After Allen had spent 11 seasons facing Kansas City, the Chiefs could look to swap out one older receiver, DeAndre Hopkins, with another in Allen,” Valentino wrote. “Hopkins was a bust of an acquisition, and the uncertain future of Hollywood Brown and instability with Rashee Rice means the Chiefs need another body who can win from the slot at a reasonable price.”
While adding another aging receiver may seem like a familiar gamble for Kansas City, Allen might be an exception. The 32-year-old wideout remains one of the league’s most consistent pass-catchers and could provide Mahomes with the kind of reliability he lacked this past season.
What Allen Brings to the Table
Allen posted 70 receptions for 744 yards and seven touchdowns with the Chicago Bears in 2024. While those numbers don’t jump off the page, it’s important to remember that he was playing in an inconsistent offensive system. Just two years ago, he racked up 108 catches for 1,243 yards and seven scores with the Los Angeles Chargers, earning his sixth Pro Bowl nod.
Over his 11-year career with the Chargers, Allen recorded six 1,000-yard seasons, peaking with 1,393 yards in 2017. While he may no longer be that level of playmaker, his precise route running, strong hands, and ability to find soft spots in coverage make him a strong fit for Kansas City’s offense.
What’s Next for the Chiefs?
Kansas City should also look to add a younger weapon in the NFL Draft, but given their cap constraints, Allen may be one of the best realistic options in free agency. His veteran presence, combined with Mahomes’ ability to elevate receivers, could make him a valuable addition to an offense in need of stability.
The Chiefs don’t need a superstar—they just need someone who can make plays when it matters. Allen might be that guy.
