The Kansas City Chiefs are saying goodbye to a long-time defensive staple as NFL free agency shakes up rosters across the league. According to his agency, Sports Trust Advisors, Derrick Nnadi, a key part of Kansas City’s defensive front for the past seven seasons, is heading to the New York Jets. The 28-year-old defensive lineman, who helped the Chiefs secure three Super Bowl rings, now has the chance to battle for a starting role in New York.
Nnadi has been a rock in the Chiefs’ defense, lining up alongside All-Pro Chris Jones and making a name for himself as a dependable run-stopper. Drafted in the third round back in 2018, he quickly became a crucial piece in defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s system.
While last season saw him in more of a rotational role—finishing with 11 tackles in 17 games and grabbing a sack in the postseason—his experience and championship pedigree could be a huge asset to the Jets.
For the Chiefs, this departure leaves a noticeable gap in their defensive line. With the NFL Draft just around the corner, Kansas City will likely be eyeing fresh talent to fill the void. Fortunately for them, this year’s draft class is stacked with highly rated defensive prospects so reinforcements could be on the way soon.
As Nnadi prepares for a new chapter in New York, Chiefs fans will no doubt be wishing him well—while also keeping a close eye on who Kansas City brings in to bolster their defense for another Super Bowl run.