One free agent each NFL team should sign in 2019

Kansas City Chiefs — Sheldon Richardson

The worst defense last season against the run according to Football Outsiders, Kansas City desperately needs playmakers in the defensive front. Richardson plays this season in Minnesota on a one-year deal and given the Vikings’ cap situation, likely won’t be back.

Richardson has scheme flexibility coming from the Jets 3-4 scheme while thriving in Seattle’s 4-3 front last year. Don’t let anyone tell you those distinctions are overrated. The responsibilities between a 4-3 interior defensive lineman can be wildly differently from a 3-4 five technique for example. The fact he can play both not only means Richardson can essentially slide in for any team in the league, but he can outlive a potential scheme change should the Chiefs endure another miserable season under Bob Sutton.

The Chiefs have Justin Houston and Chris Jones is an underrated defensive lineman, but other than that, the front lacks difference-makers. Richardson isn’t a dominating force, but can be disruptive using his quickness and strength to penetrate into backfields.

Getting to pay Patrick Mahomes instead of Alex Smith frees up the cap and should allow the Chiefs to make one or two solid moves to improve this team. Adding Richardson would be a positive step forward.