Earl Thomas to Kansas City was all but done until the Ravens offered a longer deal after the 2018 season. Should the Chiefs try for Thomas again now that he has been cut by Baltimore?
Is it feasible?
The Chiefs currently sit a little over 13.8 million, according to Over The Cap. It was speculated that Thomas was going to sign a one-year, $12 million deal with the Chiefs in 2019. After a year of scandal and aging, I’d bet the price tag has fallen. Financially, I don’t doubt the Chiefs front office to get any deal done. If Andy Reid and Brett Veach want him, they can afford it.
Should we want him?
I’m really not too bothered about the fights in practice, that’s not new for NFL teams. My main concern oddly enough, his personal life. Before football, I’m hoping that Earl Thomas has his personal life in order. Like anyone else, football players face personal setbacks. I hope that Earl come back to form mentally, and balls out wherever he lands.
Should it be the Chiefs? I have mixed feelings about it. Would he improve the roster? Absolutely. The Chiefs have established leadership, and chemistry, a move like this could hurt that. On the other hand, maybe it’s what he needs. A team that has established leaders, so the weight doesn’t fall on Thomas’ shoulders alone.
How does he fit in?
During draft week, Tyrann Mathieu tweeted that he wanted the Chiefs to draft a safety so he could, “hunt like a government mercenary.” So, it’s safe to say he likes the idea. Equally important, Steve Spagnuolo likes three safety sets. It might have slipped by you, with CB Kendall Fuller often filling in at safety.
Adding Thomas would allow Mathieu to hunt even more than in 2019-20. According to Pro Football Focus KC, Mathieu played 561 snaps in the slot, 91 on the defensive line, and 31 at wide corner. Hunting Honey would be fun to see more of.
At least make the call
Andy Reid or Brett Veach, one of them should at least reach out. See what Thomas would cost, where his mind is at. You don’t become a dynasty by complacency. Any affordable upgrade should be contacted. Let’s see if that happens with Earl Thomas.
