With every Kansas City Chiefs player now reporting to training camp, the offseason is officially in the rearview mirror, and the 2025 season is now underway. While a lot of attention will naturally focus on the incoming rookie class, seasoned veterans facing potential role changes deserve equal attention during the next month or so.
Linebacker Drue Tranquill represents one of the most intriguing under-the-radar position battles to monitor throughout camp. Make no mistake, Tranquill's roster spot is completely secure. He's rightfully earned his place on the team, and Brett Veach signing him to a modest contract in 2023 ranks among his shrewdest acquisitions. However, his specific role within the linebacker rotation remains fluid and subject to change based on his training camp performance.
Nick Bolton sits firmly atop the linebacker depth chart following his recent payday. He'll lead Steve Spagnuolo's defense with the green dot communication device and log the majority of defensive snaps, barring injury. Beyond Bolton's established role, the remaining slots and roles are not set in stone.
While Drue Tranquill's roster spot is secure, his role within KC's linebacker rotation remains fluid.
Tranquill faces real competition from Leo Chenal and rookie Jeffrey Bassa, both capable of playing meaningful defensive roles. Should Chenal excel during the month-plus of practices while Tranquill shows signs of decline, the former could easily claim the secondary linebacker role. Bassa presents another wild card—despite his fifth-round draft status, he's already earned praise from Nick Bolton, suggesting the rookie possesses the tools to make an immediate impact.
The trends surrounding Tranquill warrant attention. While he performed admirably in 2024, his production dipped slightly from his exceptional 2023 campaign. His coverage metrics revealed some regression, surrendering two touchdown passes after allowing zero the previous season, while his passer rating against climbed from 93.6 to 107.9, according to Pro Football Focus ($).
With Tranquill approaching his 30th birthday on August 15, these minor declines could signal the beginning of a natural aging curve that many veterans experience.
The stakes for Tranquill's training camp performance are clear. A strong showing will maintain the status quo—Bolton and Tranquill anchoring the linebacker corps, with Chenal and Bassa providing depth. However, an underwhelming camp could open doors for younger, hungrier players to leapfrog him on the depth chart or alter the team's linebacker rotation behind Bolton for the upcoming season.
