Championship teams are built on more than just superstar quarterbacks and highlight-reel touchdowns. In the trenches, where games are often won or lost, Kansas City has relied on a tough, disciplined defensive line to fuel its dynasty. But as the Chiefs gear up for another title run (let’s call it a revenge tour), change is in the air. After that brutal Super Bowl loss, Andy Reid and the front office have been busy retooling the defense. In that process, KC has parted ways with a few familiar faces: Justin Reid, Keith Taylor, and Josh Uche. Well, you’ve got to break a few eggs to make an omelet.
It’s not only the goodbyes, Reid and the front office are also bringing back some of the key pieces. The Chiefs are bringing back Marlon Tuipulotu. His agency Aura Sports Group spilled the beans that Kansas City is locking him in again, though the contract details are still hush-hush. Tuipulotu was on a one-year deal with Kansas City worth $1M. The USC alum was originally drafted by Philly in the 2021 draft. Marlon was part of the Eagles squad that made a run to Super Bowl LVII. Philly released him last year during the preseason, and KC signed him to the practice squad.
The #Chiefs are re-signing DT Marlon Tuipulotu, per his agency @aurasportsgroup. pic.twitter.com/6KtaOkpr94
— Starcade Media (@StarcadeMediaKC) March 19, 2025
Tuipulotu didn’t see much action in his first year with the Chiefs. The 25-year-old played in just two games, starting in one. He was on the field for 61 defensive snaps and seven special teams plays. During that time, the DT made four tackles, out of which one resulted in a loss of yards.
The Chiefs earlier let go of their defensive tackle, Tershawn Wharton. An undrafted free agent, Wharton had been with the Chiefs since 2020. After re-signing him on a one-year contract last season, KC parted ways with him this time. Tershawn signed a three-year deal with the Panthers worth $54 million on the first day of free agency.
Wharton is not the only defensive tackle Andy Reid and the front office decided to let go of.
Andy Reid hits refresh: Chiefs shake up DT room
The offseasons are full of happy reunions and bitter goodbyes. So, while the Chiefs are bringing back Tuipulotu, they didn’t bring back Derrick Nnadi. The Florida State alum was on a $2M one-year deal with Kansas City. Derrick had been with the Chiefs since 2018 after they selected him as the 75th overall pick. Along the way, he bagged three Super Bowl rings.
The post Chiefs Reinforce Andy Reid’s Defense With $1M Asset as Kansas City Bids Farewell to 3x Super Bowl Champion appeared first on EssentiallySports.
