The Kansas City Chiefs, fresh off a Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024, are reportedly eyeing a major move to bolster their offensive line for the 2025 season. According to a recent article by Pro Football Network, the Chiefs have been linked to a potential trade for Cleveland Browns’ star guard Wyatt Teller, a two-time All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler currently in the final year of a four-year, $56.8 million contract. This blockbuster trade could address critical needs for Kansas City while reshaping the Browns’ roster as they navigate a challenging financial situation.
Chiefs’ Offensive Line Needs
The Chiefs’ offensive line performed admirably in 2024, ranking 12th in Pro Football Network’s evaluations, but the departure of veteran guard Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears has left a glaring hole at left guard. Kansas City has made strides to reinforce their line, drafting Josh Simmons in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft and signing Jaylon Moore to compete for the left tackle position. However, uncertainties remain, particularly with second-year lineman Kingsley Suamataia, who struggled at left tackle last season but may transition to the interior.
Teller, known for his versatility and elite run-blocking ability, could be the perfect fit. Despite primarily playing right guard for the Browns, his athleticism and power make him a candidate to slide to the left side, where Kansas City needs reinforcement. His addition would provide stability and depth, addressing concerns about the Chiefs’ guard position behind Suamataia and Trey Smith. With only $11.25 million in cap space—fourth-least in the NFL—Kansas City would need to carefully structure any trade to balance their books, potentially involving draft picks or a player swap.
Why Cleveland Might Consider the Trade
For the Cleveland Browns, trading Teller could provide much-needed cap relief. Teller carries a $14.175 million cap hit in 2025, and moving him after June 1 would save Cleveland $7 million while incurring $19.2 million in dead cap space through 2028. The Browns are grappling with a dire financial situation, exacerbated by quarterback Deshaun Watson’s recovery from an Achilles injury and a crowded quarterback room featuring Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders. With no playoff hopes for 2025 and a roster loaded with unanswered questions, Cleveland may prioritize flexibility over retaining high-cost veterans like Teller, whose contract expires after this season.
Teller’s Value and Track Record
Wyatt Teller, drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft and traded to Cleveland in 2019, has emerged as one of the league’s premier guards. His accolades include second-team All-Pro honors in 2020 and 2021, and Pro Bowl selections from 2021 to 2023. Teller’s dominance in the run game has been instrumental in powering the Browns’ rushing attack, which led the NFL in rushing average (5.09 yards per carry) in 2021 and supported Nick Chubb’s 1,525-yard season in 2022. Despite missing time due to a knee injury in 2024, Teller returned to form, earning praise for his physicality and leadership.
At 30 years old, Teller remains a valuable asset, combining long arms, a muscular frame, and elite finishing ability in the run game. His ability to open holes for running backs and protect quarterbacks makes him an attractive target for a Chiefs team aiming to maintain their status as AFC contenders.
Implications for Both Teams
For Kansas City, acquiring Teller could solidify their offensive line, providing Patrick Mahomes with better protection and improving their run game to complement their high-powered passing attack. The Chiefs, who have already clinched the AFC West title in 2024 and are aiming for the No. 1 seed in the playoffs, view Teller as a piece to sustain their championship window. However, the trade’s feasibility hinges on Kansas City’s ability to navigate their limited cap space and Cleveland’s willingness to absorb dead cap hits.
For Cleveland, moving Teller could signal a shift toward rebuilding or retooling for 2026. The Browns’ chaotic quarterback situation and lack of playoff contention make it sensible to prioritize cap space and draft capital, especially with younger players like Dawand Jones and recent draft picks vying for roles. However, trading a proven leader like Teller could impact team morale, particularly after a season marked by fan frustrations and off-field controversies, such as Carly Teller’s public criticism of Pittsburgh Steelers fans’ behavior.
What’s Next?
While the trade remains speculative, it has sparked intrigue among fans and analysts. The Chiefs’ aggressive offseason moves, including their draft investments and free-agent signings, suggest they are committed to addressing weaknesses. Meanwhile, Cleveland’s front office faces tough decisions as they balance short-term competitiveness with long-term financial health. Whether Teller dons a Chiefs uniform in 2025 or remains a cornerstone in Cleveland, this potential trade underscores the NFL’s ever-shifting landscape, where bold moves can redefine a team’s trajectory.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Kansas City and Cleveland to see if this bombshell trade materializes, potentially reshaping both franchises’ futures.