After Super Bowl Loss, Chiefs Make Bold Defense Overhaul—Here’s Everything You Missed

The Kansas City Chiefs may have lost the Super Bowl, but they are far from dwelling on it. Head coach Andy Reid and his staff are already taking decisive action to bolster the team, starting with some big moves on the defensive side. With the offseason in full swing, the Chiefs are aiming to improve every aspect of their game and stay ahead of their competition.

In a major shake-up, Kansas City announced two key hires to their coaching staff: Matt House as Senior Defensive Assistant and Chris Orr as Defensive Quality Control Coach. The Chiefs’ focus on defense comes after a Super Bowl performance in which the Philadelphia Eagles exposed some of Kansas City’s defensive vulnerabilities. Many believe the Eagles could have easily scored 40+ points had they continued pressing.

Matt House is no stranger to the Chiefs, having served as the linebackers coach during their 2019 Super Bowl victory before moving on to LSU as their defensive coordinator. House’s return brings a wealth of experience and familiarity that could be invaluable to the team. Meanwhile, Chris Orr, most recently a coach at Jackson State, is known for helping lead their 2024 HBCU National Championship team. Orr also has NFL experience as a player with the Carolina Panthers, which provides him with a fresh, unique perspective to bring to Kansas City’s defense.

However, the Chiefs’ defensive overhaul comes at a time when they are facing the departure of another key member of their staff. Defensive assistant Donald D’Alesio is set to leave Kansas City for the Baltimore Ravens, where he will take over as their defensive backs coach. D’Alesio had spent four seasons with the Chiefs and was considered a bright young coach. His loss leaves a hole that the new hires will be expected to fill, making these changes even more critical.

As the Chiefs focus on retooling their defense, they also face another challenge off the field: contract negotiations with 25-year-old guard Trey Smith. Smith has been a key player for the Chiefs, but with only $7.8 million in cap space, it could be difficult for Kansas City to keep him. Smith is projected to secure a four-year, $78 million deal in free agency, which presents a tough decision for the Chiefs. Adding to the complexity is the fact that the Ravens, with $17.3 million in cap space, could be in prime position to land Smith. The Saints are also a threat, despite being $81.4 million over the cap.

While the Chiefs have already invested heavily in their offensive line, including the record-setting contract extension for Creed Humphrey, the limited cap space may force them to make some tough financial decisions. The Chiefs could restructure deals, make roster cuts, or attempt other strategies to retain Smith, but the Ravens—and potentially the Saints—are lurking, ready to pounce.

The Chiefs’ offseason is far from over, and with significant coaching changes and player negotiations on the horizon, things are bound to get interesting. Will Kansas City manage to keep Smith and improve their defense? Or will they face another offseason of tough decisions? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the 2025 season will be one to watch.