Chiefs 2023 free agency tracker: Derrick Nnadi, a defensive tackle, re-signs with the team
NFL free agency has begun, and with analysis from our NFL Nation writers and expert ratings, we’re keeping tabs on every significant signing, trade, and release of the 2023 offseason. The official start of the new league year was March 15, at 4 p.m. ET. This means that free agent signings are now possible. ESPN will air the first round of the 2023 NFL draft on April 27.
Prior to the commencement of free agency, the Kansas City Chiefs made two significant decisions: they chose not to place the franchise tag on Orlando Brown Jr., a left tackle who appeared certain to be tagged again after playing with it in 2022, and they chose to release pass-rusher Frank Clark.
During the NFL combine, the Chiefs and Clark’s agent worked on a revised contract, but sources informed ESPN that the two parties were unable to come to an agreement. Now that he is third all-time in postseason sacks, the organization intends to release Clark.
Playing under the tag would have cost the Chiefs about $20 million, with an additional $21 million coming off the cap due to Clark. With $41 million more to spend before the 2023 season begins, how will the Chiefs use it?
The following lists every 2023 NFL free agent that the Chiefs signed, along with an analysis of how each will affect the forthcoming campaign:
Defense tackle Derrick Nnadi
On March 21, sources informed ESPN that defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi is returning to the Chiefs.
What it means: Nnadi fills a need for the Chiefs, who were thin in the middle of their defensive line outside of Chris Jones with the loss of Khalen Saunders to free agency. The Chiefs have learned to rely on Nnadi.
In his five NFL seasons, he has only missed one game due to injury.
What is the risk: There isn’t much because the Chiefs are aware of exactly what they are getting from Nnadi. He has been a member of the Chiefs for each of his five NFL seasons. Considering that Nnadi is primarily a run defender rather than a pass rusher and frequently leaves the field on third downs, the Chiefs will need to adjust their defensive line rotation accordingly.
