Chiefs Eye Trade for Calais Campbell as Deadline Approaches
UPDATE: The Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly considering a trade for veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell as the NFL trade deadline on November 4 approaches. With Chris Jones facing an overwhelming workload, Chiefs general manager Brett Veach may seek immediate help to bolster the struggling defensive line.
As the Chiefs navigate through the season, their defensive unit has proven to be a significant concern. Currently, they rank as the fourth worst in the NFL in EPA/rush allowed at 0.7, trailing only the Ravens, Bills, and Dolphins. Jones has been forced to play over 80 percent of defensive snaps, a situation that is unsustainable given his importance and the Chiefs’ financial commitment to him through 2028.
The Chiefs made a strategic move earlier this year by selecting Omarr Norman-Lott in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. However, with Norman-Lott only playing 20 percent of snaps as of Week 6, the Chiefs find themselves in dire need of additional depth. This lack of readiness from their rookie has prompted speculation about potential trades.
Campbell, who is currently with the Arizona Cardinals, has been a topic of interest. At 39 years old, his ability to compete at a high level—evidenced by 10 pressures, 3 sacks, and 15 combined tackles this season—makes him a valuable asset for any team in need of defensive reinforcement. The Cardinals, sitting at 2-4 in the NFC West, may be inclined to offload veterans like Campbell if they continue to struggle.
A trade for Campbell could provide the Chiefs with the experience and versatility they desperately need. The financial aspect is manageable, as Campbell’s single-season deal carries a cap hit of $6 million, making it an enticing option for Kansas City. With the Cardinals potentially looking to rebuild, the Chiefs have a clear opportunity to strengthen their roster.
As the deadline looms, all eyes will be on Veach’s next move. Will he make the push for Campbell, or will other teams also vying for his services complicate the situation? The Chiefs are certainly not alone in their pursuit, as Campbell’s impact on the field makes him a coveted player.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the trade deadline approaches. The urgency is palpable—can the Chiefs secure the veteran help they need before it’s too late? Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
