Chiefs Trade Pitch Lands Steelers $5.3 Million Young Playmaker to Address Position of Need

Kansas City, MO – May 7, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs aim to ignite their backfield, proposing a trade for Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren, a $5.3 million playmaker, sources told ESPN. The move targets a critical need after a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss exposed offensive gaps.

Warren, 26, racked up 821 yards from scrimmage in 2024 as Najee Harris’ backup. His 1,111-yard 2023 season showcases red-zone flair, fitting Andy Reid’s scheme. “Jaylen’s a dynamic weapon,” coach Reid said, eyeing Warren to complement Kenneth Walker III and ease Isiah Pacheco’s injury concerns.

Pittsburgh, with rookie Kaleb Johnson poised to start, views Warren’s expiring contract as trade bait. The Chiefs could offer a 2026 fourth-round pick, leveraging $12.7 million in cap space. GM Brett Veach sees Warren bolstering an offense ranked 28th with 1,392 rushing yards.

Kansas City’s draft—Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith—left the backfield thin. Warren, an undrafted gem from Oklahoma State, offers versatility over Kareem Hunt and Elijah Mitchell, fortifying Mahomes’ arsenal.

Chiefs Kingdom buzzes with anticipation. With two remaining picks, including No. 226, Kansas City targets receiver depth. Warren’s potential arrival, a savvy strike, fuels 2025 Super Bowl dreams, promising a backfield burst to reclaim AFC supremacy.