Chiefs Release Marques Valdes-Scantling: 5 Possible WR Replacements for 2024 Super Bowl Champions

The Kansas City Chiefs have made a major announcement. One that was very unexpected. Everyone knows that the Chiefs offense’s production was not up to the mark this season. Only during the playoffs did they manage to come through. But they can’t afford to put another season at risk.

And one of the major positions that was severely lacking was the wideout position. In a possible bid to sign players in free agency, the squad has decided to part ways with one of their own.

Marquez Valdes-Scantling released by the Chiefs

The team announced that they are releasing veteran wide receiver Valdes-Scantling. This marks the end of his two-year stint with the team. The move, as reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, will significantly bolster the Chiefs’ salary cap by saving them $12 million. Despite winning two Super Bowls during his time with the Chiefs, Valdes-Scantling’s performance and his $14 million cap hit for the upcoming season led to the decision to part ways. The move will result in just $2 million in dead money, as per OverTheCap, and clears up much-needed salary cap space for the Chiefs moving forward.

The 2023 season proved challenging for the former fifth-round pick as he struggled to replicate his earlier success. Throughout the regular season, he managed only 21 receptions on 42 targets, totaling 315 yards and just one touchdown. Compared to his previous year’s performance, there were noticeable declines in several key metrics, including success rate, yards per reception, and receptions per game. Despite these setbacks, he showed signs of improvement during the playoffs, recording eight receptions on 13 targets for 128 yards and a touchdown.

Currently, the Chiefs’ WR group features Rashee Rice, Skyy Moore, Kadarius Toney, Justin Watson, and Justyn Ross. With Marquez Valdes-Scantling’s departure, who might step in as a potential replacement for him?

Possible replacements for Valdes-Scantling

One potential option is Michael Pittman Jr., whose upside could bring significant benefits to Andy Reid’s offense, although his price range might pose a challenge for the Chiefs. Another candidate is Calvin Ridley, whose addition could elevate him to the Chiefs’ No. 1 receiver, potentially leading to career-best numbers catching passes from Patrick Mahomes.

Gabriel Davis has consistently troubled the Chiefs when playing for the Buffalo Bills and could emerge as a star in Kansas City’s offense, addressing their need for receiving help. Mike Evans stands out as the most desirable free-agent receiver, although his acquisition would come with a hefty price tag for the Chiefs. Finally, Tyler Boyd brings reliability to the table with his sure hands and imposing six-foot-two frame, offering assistance to Kansas City’s passing game.

Who the Chiefs will ultimately sign is anyone’s guess. Or could they be just freeing up cap to sign some fresh faces during the April Draft?

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