Patrick Mahomes restructures his contract with Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs are making big moves this offseason, starting with the restructuring of contracts for two of their biggest stars—quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones. By adjusting their deals, the Chiefs freed up $49.4 million in salary cap space, giving the team financial flexibility to strengthen their roster.

With free agency already in full swing, the Chiefs have wasted no time using this newfound cap space to re-sign key players and bring in new talent. This strategic financial move comes after a disappointing 40-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, and Kansas City is now laser-focused on reloading for another championship run.

But what does this restructuring mean for Mahomes, Jones, and the Chiefs as a whole? Let’s break it all down.

Patrick Mahomes’ Restructured Contract: A Team-First Move

How Mahomes’ Contract Restructure Works

Patrick Mahomes, the face of the franchise and arguably the best quarterback in the NFL, signed a historic 10-year, $450 million contract extension in 2020, keeping him in Kansas City through 2031. However, the Chiefs have restructured his deal multiple times to create cap space when needed.

This latest restructuring converted nearly $23 million of Mahomes’ 2025 base salary into a signing bonus, allowing the team to spread the cap hit over multiple years. This move reduced his immediate cap hit and freed up space for other signings.

Why Mahomes Agreed to the Restructure

Mahomes has consistently shown a team-first mentality, prioritizing winning over maximizing his personal earnings. Instead of demanding a fully guaranteed contract like some other quarterbacks, Mahomes structured his deal in a way that allows Kansas City to remain competitive every year.

This latest restructuring ensures that Mahomes will have a strong supporting cast in 2025 and beyond, increasing his chances of winning more Super Bowls.

Chris Jones Restructures to Help the Chiefs Stay Competitive

Jones’ Deal Saves Even More Cap Space

Defensive tackle Chris Jones, one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL, also agreed to restructure his contract, saving the Chiefs an additional $27.5 million against the cap. Jones, who signed a five-year, $158.75 million extension in 2024, remains a cornerstone of Kansas City’s defense.

Similar to Mahomes, his restructure converted part of his salary into a signing bonus, creating immediate cap relief while keeping him locked in as a long-term leader for the defense.

Jones’ Importance to the Chiefs

Chris Jones has been the anchor of Kansas City’s defensive line for years. His ability to pressure quarterbacks, stop the run, and disrupt plays makes him one of the most valuable defenders in the league. His willingness to restructure his contract signals his commitment to winning more championships with the Chiefs.

How the Chiefs Used Their $49.4 Million in Cap Space

By restructuring Mahomes and Jones’ contracts, Kansas City was able to quickly reinvest in key players and make crucial signings. Here’s how they’ve spent their cap space so far:

1. Re-Signing Key Players

• Marquise “Hollywood” Brown (WR)—One-Year Deal
  The Chiefs brought back the speedy wide receiver on a one-year contract, giving Mahomes a deep threat in the passing game. Hollywood Brown was an important part of Kansas City’s offense last season, and resigning him ensures continuity at the position.

• Trey Smith (RG)—Franchise Tagged
  The Chiefs placed the franchise tag on standout right guard Trey Smith, guaranteeing he stays in Kansas City for another season. Smith has been a dominant force on the offensive line, and keeping him was a top priority.

• Nick Bolton (LB): Three-Year Contract Extension
  The Chiefs locked up their defensive captain, Nick Bolton, with a three-year extension. Bolton has been a tackling machine and leader on defense, and this deal ensures he remains the centerpiece of Kansas City’s linebacking corps.

2. Adding New Talent in Free Agency

• Jaylon Moore (OT): Signed from 49ers
  The Chiefs signed offensive tackle Jaylon Moore to help protect Mahomes. Offensive line depth was a concern, especially after the team struggled in pass protection against the Eagles in the Super Bowl.

• Kristian Fulton (CB): Signed from Titans
  Cornerback Kristian Fulton joins the Chiefs to strengthen the secondary. His ability to cover top receivers will help improve Kansas City’s pass defense, which has been an area of concern.

• Elijah Mitchell (RB): Signed from 49ers
  The Chiefs added running back Elijah Mitchell, who brings speed, vision, and versatility to the backfield. With his ability to both run and catch passes, he gives the offense another weapon.

• James Winchester (LS)—Re-Signed
  Long snapper James Winchester was re-signed to maintain consistency on special teams, an often-overlooked but crucial part of the game.

Notable Departures: Who the Chiefs Lost in Free Agency

While the Chiefs have made big moves to retain and acquire talent, they also lost some key players in free agency:

• Joe Thuney (OG): Traded to Bears
  The Chiefs traded All-Pro guard Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears, saving $16 million in cap space. While Thuney was a dominant force on the line, the Chiefs had to make difficult financial decisions.

• Justin Reid (S): Signed with Saints
  Safety Justin Reid signed a three-year, $31.5 million deal with the New Orleans Saints. Losing a key defensive back will be a challenge, but the Chiefs are confident in their secondary depth.

• DeAndre Hopkins (WR): Signed with Ravens
  Veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens, opting to join Lamar Jackson in Baltimore.

What This Means for the Chiefs’ Super Bowl Hopes

Kansas City has made all the right moves this offseason to remain a top Super Bowl contender. By restructuring Mahomes and Jones’ contracts, they gained the financial flexibility to:

✔ Retain key players (Trey Smith, Nick Bolton, Hollywood Brown)
✔ Improve the offensive line (Jaylon Moore)
✔ Strengthen the defense (Kristian Fulton, Elijah Mitchell)
✔ Maintain stability on special teams (James Winchester)

With Patrick Mahomes leading the offense and Chris Jones anchoring the defense, the Chiefs are well-positioned to compete for another Super Bowl title in 2025.

Final Thoughts: Chiefs’ Smart Strategy Keeps Them on Top

The Kansas City Chiefs continue to prove why they are one of the best-run organizations in the NFL. By restructuring Mahomes and Jones’ contracts, they were able to free up $49.4 million, make smart moves in free agency, and position themselves for another deep playoff run.

With Mahomes locked in until 2031 and a roster full of talent, the Chiefs remain the team to beat. As the 2025 season approaches, fans in Kansas City have every reason to be excited—another Lombardi Trophy could be on the horizon.