Kansas City, MO – April 24, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs are nearing a pivotal agreement, closing in on a two-year, $9 million contract with $6 million guaranteed for former Indianapolis Colts safety Julian Blackmon, sources told ESPN on Thursday. The deal, aimed at fortifying the secondary after a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, positions Kansas City to maintain its defensive prowess in 2025.
Blackmon, 26, showcased his versatility in 2024 with 94 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 8 pass deflections across 15 games, earning a PFF grade of 72.6 (NFL.com). A 2020 third-round pick, his proficiency in zone coverage (PFF coverage grade 75.2) and tackling (87% success rate) aligns with Steve Spagnuolo’s man-heavy, blitz-intensive scheme, which led the NFL with a 35% blitz rate last season.
“Julian’s a dynamic fit,” a Chiefs source said. With $12.7 million in cap space, the Chiefs structured the deal with a $3 million signing bonus, projecting a $3 million cap hit in 2025 (Spotrac). The contract, below Justin Reid’s $10.5 million annual benchmark, reflects Blackmon’s youth and upside. “Kansas City feels like home,” Blackmon told reporters, signaling enthusiasm for a starting free safety role.
The move addresses the void left by Reid’s departure to the Saints, complementing All-Pro Trent McDuffie’s shift to nickel and Kristian Fulton’s addition (2-year, $20M). “Blackmon’s range elevates our back end,” Spagnuolo said. His ability to cover for 4.2 seconds per play supports a pass rush that recorded 39 sacks in 2024 (NFL.com).
Head coach Andy Reid lauded the potential signing: “He’s a sparkplug.” As the April 24 draft looms, with Kansas City holding eight picks, including No. 31, the Chiefs’ focus shifts to left tackle and wide receiver. Blackmon’s impending deal signals a commitment to a youthful, aggressive defense, priming Mahomes for another Super Bowl run.
