The Kansas City Chiefs have been making some big changes to their roster, and these moves might spell trouble for linebacker Nick Bolton. With recent trades, tag placements, and the signing decisions made by rival teams, Bolton’s future with the Chiefs looks a bit shaky, and fans are left wondering what this means for one of their key defensive players.
Recent Roster Moves Affect Bolton’s Future
In February, the Chiefs made headlines when they decided to place the non-exclusive franchise tag on Trey Smith. Just a few days later, they traded Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears, which is a significant shift for the team. These moves can have a ripple effect in the locker room and impact the team’s overall strategy moving forward. Of course, this situation is especially concerning for Bolton, who has been a standout player for the Chiefs, but now faces an uncertain future.
- The Chiefs tagged Trey Smith on February 28, 2025.
- Joe Thuney was traded to Chicago on March 5, 2025.
- Philadelphia signed linebacker Zack Baun, which complicates Bolton’s situation.
Competing Offers Diminishing Chances
Adding to Bolton’s uncertainty, the Philadelphia Eagles made a significant move of their own by signing linebacker Zack Baun to a whopping three-year, $51 million deal. With teams like the Eagles willing to dish out big contracts for reliable players, Bolton’s projected four-year contract of $49.25 million may not seem as attractive, especially when compared to Baun’s payday. Bolton’s strong career performance across four seasons provides a solid case for a higher salary, but will the Chiefs step up to the plate?
Bolton’s Performance History
Nick Bolton has consistently proven his worth on the field. With over 100 tackles recorded in three out of his four seasons, and strong defensive statistics, he has shown why he’s considered one of the valuable assets for the Chiefs. However, Bolton’s injury in 2023, which sidelined him for nine games, raises concerns about his availability and durability. The recent roster changes might influence how the Chiefs view Bolton moving forward.
The Dallas Cowboys Eyeing Bolton
Amidst the uncertainty, there are whispers about the Dallas Cowboys eyeing Bolton for their roster as they look to fill crucial gaps. CBS Sports speculates that the Cowboys could sign him to improve their linebacker corps. The team’s strategy of restructuring contracts for star players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb to free up cap space has opened doors for potential new additions. Bolton played high school football nearby, adding to the appeal for a potential move.
- The Cowboys restructured contracts for Prescott and Lamb.
- They also signed Osa Odighizuwa to a four-year, $80 million deal.
- There’s a real need for inside linebackers, making Bolton a valuable option.
Other Teams Considering Bolton
But it’s not just the Cowboys keeping an eye on Bolton. The Las Vegas Raiders are also facing a potential hole in their defense, especially if they don’t re-sign linebacker Robert Spillane. With their own needs for a consistent run-stopper, the Raiders could see Bolton as an enticing option. His remarkable stats, particularly against the run, make him a hot commodity in the free agency market.
What’s Next for Bolton?
As the offseason progresses, all eyes are on Nick Bolton and how these changes will affect his career. With the Chiefs’ current financial situation, it’s hard to predict what will happen next. Will they prioritize keeping Bolton, or will they allow him to explore other opportunities with rival teams? The future is uncertain, but one thing is for sure: fans will be eagerly watching to see where Bolton’s journey takes him next.
