The Chiefs’ defense has been a consistent force during their three consecutive Super Bowl berths. However, one of their most important players could leave in free agency.
Nick Bolton has been one of the Chefs’ best players on defense and he is finally a free agent. He is perhaps the best linebacker on the market and the Chiefs will prioritize him. However, the Chiefs also need to prioritize Trey Smith, and that could price Nick Bolton out of their budget. SportsGrid’s Zack Cook predicted that Bolton would sign with the Tennessee Titans in free agency.
“Nick Bolton continues to be a formidable force for the Chiefs, racking up tackles and instilling fear in the hearts of receivers across the league,” wrote Cook. “As he maintains his high level of play in Kansas City, one can’t help but wonder: Will this tackling powerhouse secure a lucrative free agent deal?”
Bolton has led the Chiefs in tackles three times in his tenure. He started 16 games last season and recorded one interception, 106 tackles and three sacks. His three sacks were a career-high.
The Titans have plenty of cap space and will be looking to upgrade on both sides of the ball. Spotrac projects Bolton to sign a four-year, $49 million deal in free agency. In four seasons with the Chiefs, Bolton has posted four interceptions, 15 passes defended, five sacks and 458 tackles. Overall he has started 53 games for the Chiefs in the regular season.
Bolton even scored a touchdown in Super Bowl 57 against the Philadelphia Eagles. He led all players in tackles during the 2023 playoffs.
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