Chiefs Connected to Blockbuster Trade for $36 Million Star to Fill Biggest Need

Kansas City, MO – April 27, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs, aiming to reclaim Super Bowl glory after a 40-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, are linked to a blockbuster trade for Carolina Panthers wide receiver Diontae Johnson, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The $36 million star, a 2021 Pro Bowler, could fill Kansas City’s glaring need for a WR1 as they navigate Rashee Rice’s potential suspension and DeAndre Hopkins’ departure.

Johnson, 28, led the Panthers with 30 catches, 357 yards, and three touchdowns in 2024 (PFF grade 74.6, NFL.com). His elite separation (90% rate) and 4.4-second 40-yard dash speed make him a perfect fit for Andy Reid’s RPO-heavy scheme, complementing Xavier Worthy and Marquise Brown. “Diontae’s a game-changer,” a Chiefs source said. With $12.7 million in cap space, Kansas City can absorb Johnson’s $7 million 2025 cap hit, the final year of his $36.7 million deal (Spotrac).

The Chiefs, fresh off drafting Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith, lack a proven receiver to stretch defenses. Johnson’s 4,363 career yards offer immediate impact, unlike rookie Royals (pick 133). The Panthers, in a 1-6 rebuild, are open to trading Johnson for draft capital, per The Athletic.

Chiefs receive: WR Diontae Johnson and a 2025 seventh-round pick (No. 240).
Panthers receive: A 2025 third-round pick (No. 95) and a 2026 fifth-round pick.

“Diontae elevates our attack,” GM Brett Veach told reporters. Coach Andy Reid echoed: “He’s a Mahomes magnet.” With three remaining picks, including No. 226, the Chiefs eye running back depth. As Carolina rebuilds around Xavier Legette, this trade could propel Kansas City’s 2025 Super Bowl aspirations, giving Mahomes the weapon he needs to dominate.