The Kansas City Chiefs are navigating a delicate situation as the 2025 NFL preseason draws to a close. With the final roster cuts looming, general manager Brett Veach faces a challenging decision regarding the team’s secondary, particularly at the cornerback position. Injuries have decimated the Chiefs’ defensive backfield, forcing the team to reconsider what might have been a straightforward trade opportunity involving fourth-year cornerback Joshua Williams.
A Strategic Move with Skyy Moore Sets the Stage
The Chiefs recently made headlines by trading wide receiver Skyy Moore before their third and final preseason game against the Chicago Bears at Arrowhead Stadium. The move was a calculated one by Veach, who recognized that Moore was unlikely to secure a spot on the active roster. By trading him, Kansas City secured future draft considerations, effectively getting ahead of the frenzy that accompanies roster cuts when hundreds of players hit the waiver wire and free agency. This proactive approach underscores Veach’s strategy of maximizing value for expiring assets, and Joshua Williams appeared to be the next candidate for a similar transaction.
Williams, a 25-year-old former Fayetteville State standout, entered the NFL as a developmental prospect but quickly proved his worth. With 50 games and 12 starts under his belt, along with two Super Bowl rings, Williams has become a coveted asset. His length and versatility make him an attractive option for other NFL teams, especially in a contract year where he’s motivated to perform. On paper, trading Williams could yield a decent return, potentially bolstering the Chiefs’ draft capital. However, the team’s mounting injury concerns at cornerback have complicated what might have been a straightforward decision.
Injury Woes Plague the Chiefs’ Secondary
The Chiefs’ secondary is in a precarious position as the preseason winds down. Key starter Kristian Fulton, a free-agent signee expected to anchor the outside cornerback role under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, has been sidelined for the entirety of training camp and the first two preseason games. Fulton’s extensive injury history raises red flags, making it risky for Kansas City to assume he’ll be fully reliable for Week 1. While Fulton’s potential is undeniable, his absence has exposed the Chiefs’ lack of depth at the position.
The injury bug hasn’t spared other members of the secondary either. Jaylen Watson, another starter, missed time this preseason due to a concussion and previously sat out several games in 2024 with an ankle injury. Rookie Nohl Williams, a third-round pick from Cal in the 2025 NFL Draft, showed promise as one of the nation’s top ballhawks last season. His physical profile aligns perfectly with Spagnuolo’s preferences for the secondary, but he too has been hampered by a concussion. Additionally, Eric Scott is on injured reserve, and Darius Rush was released with an injury settlement, further thinning the Chiefs’ cornerback depth chart.
Joshua Williams: From Trade Chip to Potential Necessity
Amid these injury concerns, Joshua Williams has transitioned from a potential trade chip to a critical piece of the Chiefs’ roster puzzle. Initially viewed as a luxury given his experience and special teams contributions, Williams’ role has become increasingly vital. His ability to step in on defense and provide stability in the secondary makes him a valuable asset, particularly if Fulton or others remain unavailable. The Chiefs’ coaching staff, led by Spagnuolo, values Williams’ length and versatility, qualities that align with their defensive scheme.
Trading Williams now feels like a gamble Kansas City can ill afford. While his profile could attract interest from multiple teams, the Chiefs must prioritize depth and reliability in their secondary. A clean bill of health from Friday’s preseason finale could provide clarity, particularly if Fulton demonstrates he’s ready for the regular season. However, with roster cuts due soon, the Chiefs are in a race against time to assess their in-house options.
The “Painful” Decision to Hold Onto Williams
Veach’s decision to retain Williams, at least for now, is a “painful” one because it means forgoing potential trade value. The Chiefs could likely secure draft picks or other assets for a player of Williams’ caliber, especially given his Super Bowl pedigree and contract-year motivation. However, the uncertainty surrounding the health of Fulton, Watson, and Nohl Williams makes it difficult to part with a proven contributor. Kansas City’s secondary, once thought to be a strength, now feels like a liability, and Williams’ experience could be the difference between a shaky start and a stable one.
If the Chiefs can emerge from their final preseason game with positive health updates, they may revisit the idea of trading Williams. For now, though, the focus is on ensuring the secondary is ready for Week 1. Veach’s proactive roster management has served Kansas City well in the past, but the current injury crisis has forced the Chiefs to prioritize immediate needs over long-term gains.
Looking Ahead
As the Chiefs prepare to face the Bears in their preseason finale, all eyes will be on the health of their cornerbacks. A strong showing from Fulton or progress from Nohl Williams could alleviate some concerns, potentially opening the door for a last-minute trade. Until then, Joshua Williams remains a key part of Kansas City’s plans, a testament to the unpredictable nature of the NFL preseason and the delicate balance of roster construction. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, keeping a coveted player like Williams might be the painful but necessary choice to weather the storm of injuries.
