Several teams interested in trading for franchise-tagged CB

Cornerback L'Jarius Sneed's return to the Kansas City Chiefs next season is becoming less likely.

On Tuesday, the Chiefs gave the two-time Super Bowl champion the franchise tag (a one-year, $19.8M deal). However, he has permission to seek a trade to secure a long-term contract.

According to Tyler Dragon of USA Today, the Minnesota Vikings, Indianapolis Colts, Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons and Jacksonville Jaguars are interested in the star corner.

Suitors lining up for the 27-year-old might convince the Chiefs to move him. Trading Sneed would save $19.8M in cap space, which they could use to re-sign first-team All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones. Spotrac notes that K.C. has $9.6M in cap room.  

Sneed was one reason the Chiefs won their third Super Bowl in five years in 2023. According to Pro Football Reference, he allowed zero receiving touchdowns in 16 games and a 56.4 passer rating, the best mark of his career. 

Losing him would create a massive need. Sneed's inexperienced backup, Joshua Williams, has started six games in two seasons with the club. 

The Chiefs could find a replacement in free agency. Pro Football Focus' Brad Spielberger named Kansas City and Detroit as landing spots for 2019 Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore.

"Here, we highlight two teams that like to play press-man coverage, made their respective conference championship game, and could use the help at cornerback [especially if Sneed is traded]," Spielberger wrote. "These are simple fits for Gilmore, who is still playing at a high level."

Signing the 33-year-old isn't an expensive proposition. Spotrac estimates his market value is a one-year deal worth $11.1M.

Regardless, don't be surprised if Sneed plays for another team in 2024.