Has Chiefs GM Brett Veach Done Enough? Key Contract Extensions Raise Questions

Kansas City, MO – As of March 10, 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs have locked in several cornerstone players with long-term contracts, signaling a clear strategy from General Manager Brett Veach to maintain the team’s championship core. With Super Bowl aspirations still burning bright after a disappointing loss in Super Bowl LIX, the Chiefs have secured their stars through the late 2020s and beyond. But with these deals in place, the question lingers: has Veach done enough to keep the Chiefs atop the NFL, or is more work needed? Here’s a look at the key contracts and what they mean for the team’s future.

The Locked-In Core

1. Patrick Mahomes (Quarterback) – Signed through 2031
   The face of the franchise, Mahomes is tied to Kansas City with a massive 10-year, $450 million deal signed in 2020, potentially reaching $503 million with incentives. At 29 years old, he’s the anchor of the Chiefs’ dynasty hopes, with his contract ensuring stability well into the next decade.
2. Chris Jones (Defensive Tackle) – Signed through 2028
   A 5-year, $158.75 million extension in 2024, including $95 million guaranteed, keeps Jones in Chiefs red until he’s 38. The defensive powerhouse remains a game-wrecker, but his age raises questions about longevity versus value.
3. Nick Bolton (Linebacker) – Signed through 2027
   Bolton’s recent 3-year, $45 million deal (with $30 million guaranteed) cements his role as a defensive leader. At 25, he’s entering his prime, making this a smart investment for a Chiefs defense looking to stay elite.
4. Harrison Butker (Kicker) – Signed through 2028
   The reliable kicker signed a 5-year, $25.6 million contract in 2024, with $20.3 million guaranteed. Butker’s clutch performances in big games justify the extension, securing one of the league’s best at his position.
5. Trent McDuffie (Cornerback) – Signed through 2028
   McDuffie’s rookie deal (4 years, $13.99 million from 2022) includes a fifth-year option exercised for 2026, and reports suggest a looming extension could push him to 2028. At 24, he’s a rising star in the secondary with All-Pro potential.
6. Travis Kelce (Tight End) – Signed through 2026
   Kelce’s 2-year, $34.25 million extension in 2024 keeps the 35-year-old with Mahomes through 2026. While still a top tight end, his age and recent dip in production spark debate about how long he can maintain his elite level.

Veach’s Vision: A Dynasty in Progress?

These contracts reflect Veach’s focus on retaining the Chiefs’ championship nucleus—Mahomes, Jones, and Kelce—while investing in young talents like Bolton and McDuffie. The team’s salary cap is tight, with Mahomes ($45M) and Jones ($32M) eating up significant chunks in 2025, per posts on X. Yet, locking in Butker and planning for McDuffie’s future show a balance between short-term contention and long-term planning. Still, the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LIX loss to the Eagles exposed weaknesses, particularly in the offensive line and receiving corps, leaving fans wondering if Veach has addressed enough roster holes.

What’s Next for Chiefs Kingdom?

With these stars secured, the pressure is on Veach to fill gaps around them. Jawaan Taylor’s struggles at right tackle and a lack of consistent wide receiver production remain glaring issues. Free agency kicks off soon, and the 2025 NFL Draft looms as a chance to bolster the roster with cost-effective talent. But has Veach already built a roster ready to reclaim the Lombardi Trophy, or are Chiefs fans right to demand more?