The Kansas City Chiefs face a challenging offseason as they navigate changes in their defensive backfield. Following the loss of standout cornerback L'Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans, the Chiefs have been forced to reassess their secondary. With Trent McDuffie remaining a critical piece, the team's depth at cornerback is in question after Jaylen Watson's injury. Joshua Williams, who stepped in, has shown potential but underwhelmed at times, leading to calls for his release to free up cap space.

Analysts suggest that with a $3.4 million cap hit looming for Williams next season, Kansas City could benefit from cutting ties and potentially targeting a cornerback in the draft. Despite registering 33 tackles and a sack last season, Williams' performance may not justify his contract, indicating a shift in the Chiefs' strategy to bolster their roster with more financially viable options.

The Tennessee Titans are undergoing a significant rebuilding process following a dismal 3-14 record from last season. New general manager Mike Borgonzi is expected to make substantial changes, including possibly reversing some of the recent acquisitions made under former GM Ran Carthon. One potential move could involve cornerback Chidobe Awuzie, who signed a three-year deal with the Titans after joining from the Cincinnati Bengals. Analyst Alex Ballentine suggests that the Titans might consider trading him to the Indianapolis Colts, a divisional rival.

Awuzie's familiarity with Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo could make this move appealing, especially since he previously thrived in Anarumo's system. However, the Titans have a significant investment in L'Jarius Sneed, raising questions about Awuzie's future with the team. Last season, he struggled with injuries, only managing to play in eight games.

The Titans are assessing their options, especially with the upcoming draft, where they hold the No. 1 overall pick and are rumored to be interested in Travis Hunter, a versatile prospect. Should the Titans draft Hunter, it might signal a shift in their cornerback strategy, potentially leading to a trade for Awuzie.

In a pivotal contract year, L'Jarius Sneed demonstrated elite defensive prowess, taking on top receivers and playing a pivotal role in the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory over the San Francisco 49ers. His performance in the postseason, where he allowed only two catches for 23 yards, was crucial. Following this success, the Chiefs traded Sneed to the Tennessee Titans, who provided him a lucrative four-year contract worth over $76 million. Meanwhile, fellow Chiefs receiver Marquise Brown, who struggled with injuries throughout the regular season, is at a crossroads where a strong Super Bowl performance could secure his future. The Chiefs also face decisions regarding key players with expiring contracts, like offensive lineman Trey Smith, the best at his position. Both teams are poised for financial maneuvers as free agency approaches.

The Kansas City Chiefs made a bold move by parting ways with cornerback L'Jarius Sneed, banking on Trent McDuffie to step up. McDuffie didn't just fill the void; he thrived, earning a second-team All-Pro selection in what many consider his best season yet. Despite Sneed’s decline with the Tennessee Titans, McDuffie showcased impressive skills, breaking up 13 passes and recording two interceptions. He achieved a passer rating of 82.9 when targeted and even excelled in run defense, proving his status as a key player in the Chiefs' secondary.

McDuffie’s versatility has become an asset, logging significant coverage snaps on the boundary while reducing his slot reps, a strategic decision that could benefit the Chiefs in the playoffs. He remains focused on team success rather than personal accolades, emphasizing the importance of preparing for the postseason. As the Chiefs gear up for their championship run, McDuffie's dedication to winning reflects a mindset that prioritizes team goals over individual recognition.

The Tennessee Titans made a significant move by firing general manager Ran Carthon after a disappointing two-season tenure that culminated in a 9-25 record. Carthon, who was appointed as the franchise's first Black general manager in January 2023, faced challenges in improving the team's performance and identifying talent. While he helped hire head coach Brian Callahan, the team still struggled, finishing with a franchise-worst 14 losses in a season.

Controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk expressed her disappointment and emphasized the necessity for a fresh direction, stating that the team's lack of improvement forced her hand. The Titans will now search for a new GM to guide the franchise as it approaches the NFL draft, armed with the fourth overall pick after a last-place finish. Strunk has appointed Chad Brinker, president of football operations, to lead this search.