]

The Chiefs are expected to replace Nick Bolton with the Bills’ $21 million free agent. vannguyen

In a move that’s catching the attention of NFL insiders and fans alike, the Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly preparing to replace linebacker Nick Bolton with a $21 million free agent from the Buffalo Bills, signaling a significant shakeup in their defensive core ahead of the 2025 season.

Chiefs' Nick Bolton Sounds Off on His Focus for 2025

Nick Bolton has been a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ defense since being drafted, playing a crucial role in their Super Bowl run and earning praise for his leadership, tackling ability, and football IQ. However, injury concerns and ongoing contract extension talks have left his future in Kansas City uncertain. Now, it appears the Chiefs are considering a high-impact contingency plan.

That plan reportedly involves free agent linebacker Tyrel Dodson, who just wrapped up a breakout season with the Buffalo Bills and is coming off a $21 million contract. Dodson stepped up in a big way last season, especially after Tremaine Edmunds’ departure, delivering elite-level performances against both the run and pass. His versatility and sideline-to-sideline speed have made him a top target for linebacker-needy teams.

Identifying the top Buffalo Bills stories to watch during OTAs - Buffalo  Rumblings

Analysts suggest Dodson would be a seamless fit in Steve Spagnuolo’s aggressive defensive system, which values hybrid players who can both cover and blitz. Unlike Bolton, who excels in traditional middle linebacker duties, Dodson offers more flexibility in coverage and may provide a modern upgrade for today’s faster, pass-heavy offenses.

Chiefs To Re-Sign LB Nick Bolton

An AFC scout commented, “Tyrel Dodson is underappreciated league-wide, but watch his tape—he’s explosive, instinctive, and can quarterback a defense. The Chiefs wouldn’t lose much if he steps in for Bolton.”

Financially, the move could also benefit Kansas City. With several stars on expensive contracts—including Patrick Mahomes, Chris Jones, and Travis Kelce—clearing cap space by moving on from Bolton’s potential extension could give the Chiefs more flexibility across the roster. Dodson, on a new deal, could offer similar production at a lower long-term cost.

While Nick Bolton remains a fan favorite and a respected leader in the locker room, the rumblings around Tyrel Dodson are growing louder. If Kansas City does move forward with this plan, it could mark a bold new era for the Chiefs’ defense—faster, more adaptable, and built to dominate for years to come.

Related Posts

Buccaneers’ David Walker does something that has the NFL buzzing about the plane crash in India.

Buccaneers’ David Walker Shocks NFL With Humanitarian Action Related to Tragic Plane Crash in India While the American football world is focused on the NFL preseason, a…

Buffalo Bills’ Landon Jackson does something that has the NFL buzzing about the plane crash in India.

Landon Jackson – the rising young defensive end of the Buffalo Bills – has just made a touching gesture that has deeply touched the entire NFL community….

BREAKING: Travis Kelce loses 25 pounds after stressful NFL season amid criticism of weight gain.

Travis Kelce shed 25 pounds in preparation for the forthcoming 2025-26 NFL season after he was dragged for his “dad bod.” ESPN personality Jeremy Fowler revealed that…

UPDATE: Should the Buccaneers erect a statue to honor Tom Brady after his legendary legacy?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have never had a player quite like Tom Brady. The franchise, once defined by mediocrity and missed playoff chances, was transformed the moment Brady signed…

BREAKING: 2 Buffalo Bills at risk of cuts after 2025 training camp.

The Buffalo Bills are once again aiming high in 2025. They have a roster built to contend and a franchise quarterback locked in for the long haul. However, with…

BREAKING: Rashee Rice dodges Chiefs’ biggest question as he heaps praise on the offense.

After failing to become the first team in NFL history to three-peat as Super Bowl champions last season, Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs are looking to get…