The Chiefs are totally focused on the playoffs following a resounding 29-10 victory against the Steelers, but one odd choice appears to foreshadow the team’s summer plans.
Rookie safety Jaden Hicks, who has improved in recent weeks, had a career-high snap % in the game. Veteran starter Justin Reid is set to become a free agency and is expected to command a large contract. Based on Hicks’ increasing engagement and the draft capital invested on him and Bryan Cook, it appears Kansas City is setting the groundwork to move on from Reid and invest elsewhere.
That would align with Brett Veach’s preferred plan of releasing elderly secondary players, allowing fans to watch Reid’s final weeks in Chiefs uniform.
Chiefs S Jaden Hicks’ Increased Playing Time Foreshadows Justin Reid Exit
Chiefs rookie safety Jaden Hicks has recorded three interceptions, tied-4th among all rookie defensive backs this season! @ChiefsFocus | #ChiefsKingdom pic.twitter.com/rYBYmafuJw
— P-Mac McGruder (@ChiefsFan4Lyfe) December 23, 2024
Hicks played 71% of the defensive snaps against the Steelers, Cook 72%, and Reid 84%, which was a season low. The fact that the game ended in a blowout most likely contributed to the playing time, but it’s still a significant development for Hicks to have received that much work in the last month.
Reid has been fantastic during his time, but difficult decisions will have to be made as players like as Trey Smith and Nick Bolton are also up for contract extensions. 2025 is also the first year that Patrick Mahomes’ cap hit climbs dramatically, making it more tough for everyone.
Cook was drafted in the second round, while Hicks was selected in the fourth. Veach has been prepping the roster to eventually replace Reid, much like he did with L’Jarius Sneed with Trent McDuffie when it was time to move on.
Hicks performs well in Pro Football Focus and appears prepared to take on a larger role. Steve Spagnuolo and Andy Reid relied on him to perform in crucial games. That selection was sound, as Hicks has two interceptions in the last three weeks and appears strong in coverage.
If the organization believes in a prospective Hicks-Cook tandem, as it appears to do, it makes sense to praise Reid for his accomplishments while diverting the funds elsewhere.
Perhaps it depends on how the playoffs go, but based on recent decisions, the Chiefs are considering parting ways with the veteran starter.
