KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Chiefs general manager Brett Veach is proactive about enhancing his team’s chances of winning, particularly when opportunities arise that present low risks with high potential rewards.
Although the Chiefs hold the status of the NFL’s only undefeated team as they head into a Monday night matchup against Tampa Bay, the franchise is aware of areas needing improvement. With their top two wide receivers likely sidelined for the season, quarterback Patrick Mahomes found himself relying on a group of players with less experience alongside star tight end Travis Kelce. Additionally, the pass rush has performed only adequately, hampered by injuries across the secondary.
To address the offensive concerns, Veach made a significant move by trading a conditional fifth-round draft pick to the Titans for DeAndre Hopkins, a three-time All-Pro wide receiver. Furthermore, this week, he targeted the defense by sending a sixth-round pick in 2026 to the Patriots for edge rusher Josh Uche, a 2020 second-round draft choice known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks.
“There’s always room to enhance the roster,” Veach stated regarding his strategy after training camp. “Our job entails continuously monitoring the waiver wire and recent transactions to identify opportunities.”
Previously, the Chiefs have demonstrated a pattern of midseason trades, establishing an organizational culture that prioritizes ongoing improvement. Three years ago, the team traded offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif to the Jets, a move that contributed to acquiring pass rusher Melvin Ingram. The following year, they dealt third- and sixth-round picks to the Giants for wide receiver Kadarius Toney. Most recently, they exchanged a sixth-round pick for Mecole Hardman from the Jets.
Each of these acquisitions has proven beneficial, helping the Chiefs reach at least the AFC Championship Game, and leading to two Super Bowl victories over the last two seasons. Although neither Toney nor Hardman made enduring impacts in the current season, both were significant contributors during their championship runs, with notable moments in critical games.
Now, the expectation lies with Hopkins and Uche to make an impact for the Chiefs. Hopkins made his presence felt almost immediately, catching two passes for 29 yards and participating in nearly a third of the team’s offensive plays against Las Vegas, despite his limited preparation after the trade.
His addition is crucial, especially for a receiving corps missing injured players Marquise Brown and Rashee Rice. Hopkins provides the Chiefs with a seasoned athlete equipped with a large catch radius, addressing their struggles in the red zone where they have settled for too many field goals, as well as countering cover schemes employed by opponents.