Kansas City Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach may be forced to seek interim help at the NFL trade deadline to address a developing weakness on the defensive line.
This offseason, the Chiefs made a long-term investment by selecting defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The move was intended to add depth to a thin defensive interior that relies heavily on superstar Chris Jones. However, six games into his rookie season, Norman-Lott is playing only 20% of defensive snaps, indicating he is not yet ready for a significant role. This has forced Jones to handle a heavy workload of over 80% of snaps, an unsustainable pace given the team’s long-term financial commitment to him.
The need for an upgrade is underscored by the unit’s performance against the run, where it ranks as the NFL’s fourth-worst in EPA per rush allowed. With the November 4th trade deadline approaching, one name has emerged as an intriguing possibility: Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Calais Campbell.
Pro Football Focus identified Campbell as a top potential trade candidate, and his profile appears to be an ideal fit for Kansas City. At 39, the veteran remains a highly effective player, having recorded 10 pressures, 3 sacks, and 15 combined tackles in six starts this season. While no longer in his Pro Bowl prime, Campbell continues to disrupt opposing offenses. His manageable one-year contract with a $6 million cap hit makes him a financially viable target.
A trade is plausible from the Cardinals’ perspective. With a 2-4 record in the competitive NFC West, Arizona could become sellers at the deadline, opting to trade short-term assets for future draft capital.
Given Campbell’s experience, versatility, and continued impact, the Chiefs would have strong reason to pursue a deal if he becomes available. While they would likely face competition from other contenders, it is highly probable that Veach will explore the possibility of bringing the veteran lineman to Kansas City.
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