Drue Tranquill sends strong message post committing to Chiefs with multi-million dollar contract extension

NFL Insider Ian Rapoport broke the news about Tranquill's new contract.

Drue Tranquill sends strong message post committing to Chiefs with multi-million dollar contract extension

Drue Tranquill (Via Imago)

Despite some struggles in the early stages, the Kansas City Chiefs ended the 2023 season as the champions. Their defensive unit arguably contributed the most to their success. It was surprising for a team like the Chiefs, who have bulldozed others with their great offensive performances in the past. One of the best players in that surprisingly strong defensive unit was linebacker Drue Tranquill.

And now, in an attempt to strengthen the defense for the next season, the team has extended their star linebacker, Drue Tranquill. The linebacker played a vital role last year in stopping other offenses. As a result, the team has offered a 3-year deal to Tranquill worth $19 million, including $13 million in guarantees. NFL insider Ian Rapport broke the structure of the deal on his Twitter account.

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It’s a 3-year deal worth $19 million with $13M fully guaranteed, per source. A huge deal.
Ian Rapoport wrote on X

Following the deal, the LB shared a strong message for other teams. He claimed on Twitter that he has an unfinished business with the Chiefs.

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Unfinished business ‼️ChiefsKingdom LETS GOOOOO
Drue Tranquill wrote on X

Along with the tweet, he also posted a picture of him with Travis Kelce. The message is clear! He wants to contribute to the Chiefs’ mission of completing the three-peat (three Super Bowls in a row). This is something that Travis Kelce hinted at right after winning the second consecutive Super Bowl (3rd ring for Kelce, 4th in franchise history). Tranquill kind of echoed the sentiment after signing the contract extension.

Tranquill had a great campaign during the 2023 season. He started eight games in 2023 and registered 577 defensive snaps. In addition, the LB had 78 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles in 16 games he played throughout the 2023-24 season.

Drue Tranquill contract indicates the Chiefs are eager to keep their defensive unit together

The Kansas City Chiefs showed efficiency in getting their deals done. L’Jarius Sneed, another Chiefs star, was on the verge of hitting the free agency. There was some rumored interest from the Philadelphia Eagles as well. Nevertheless, the Chiefs did not spend much time to secure a deal with Sneed. 

L'Jarius Sneed Tush PushKansas City Chiefs
Kansas City Chiefs CB L’Jarius Sneed (Via Imago)

The Chiefs used the non-exclusive franchise tag on Sneed. The team would be paying the defender $19.8 million if he stays on the franchise tag. The defender attracted interest from seven teams in the league.

However, he was considered a vital member of the Chiefs squad and hence they used the franchise tag on him. He can still negotiate with other teams, but it’s highly unlikely a team will give up 2 first-round picks for a cornerback. And now, they have secured a contract extension with Drue Tranquill.

After securing back-to-back defenders, the Chiefs gave other teams a staunch message. They are not ready to give up on the defensive unit that contributed to their success last season.

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