Chiefs: 3 reasons why trading for Kareem Hunt is a non-starter

2. Kareem Hunt’s price tag is too much for the Chiefs

Crucial to the point about the Chiefs’ motivations this offseason is the word “affordable”. Hunt was released by Kansas City three months into his second season as a pro following a rookie season in which he claimed the rushing title. Had he never gotten into trouble, he would have surely demanded a hefty second contract in the 2021 offseason.

After he was released, the Browns were willing to overlook the character flaws attached to Hunt’s name and acquired him at a discounted rate for that reason. Now, as he has proven to remain efficient even as the second runner on Cleveland’s depth chart behind Nick Chubb, he has reestablished leverage at the negotiation table.

Considering the way that extensions have come together this offseason, it is presumable that if the Browns were able to find an offer that they liked for Hunt, the suitor would already have a new contract written up for him.

Making the $6 million AAV that he is on his current deal, Hunt is the 15th highest paid running back on an annual basis. He would likely command top-10 money on a new deal — especially If he were traded to a team that would deploy him as its unquestioned RB1. Becoming that top back on a roster is Hunt’s priority, and his agent is certainly making calls to the places where that could happen.

The Chiefs, given the youth, depth, and affordability currently boasted on their roster, and considering their tendency of avoiding big extensions this offseason — i.e. Tyreek Hill and Orlando Brown Jr. —  are simply (and obviously) not a financial fit for Hunt.