Chiefs Acquire Pass Rusher Josh Uche from Patriots for 2026 Sixth-Round Pick(Chron)
October 28, 2024 – Kansas City, MO — The Kansas City Chiefs have bolstered their defensive lineup by acquiring outside linebacker Josh Uche from the New England Patriots in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round draft pick. (Reuters)
Uche, 26, was a second-round pick by the Patriots in the 2020 NFL Draft. Over four-plus seasons with New England, he amassed 20.5 sacks in 58 games, with a standout performance in 2022, recording 11.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. In the 2024 season, Uche has contributed two sacks and 13 tackles over seven games.(Reuters, Kansas City Star)
The Chiefs, currently undefeated at 7-0, aim to strengthen their pass rush with Uche’s addition. He joins a defensive front featuring George Karlaftis, Mike Danna, and Felix Anudike-Uzomah, with defensive tackle Chris Jones anchoring the interior. The team anticipates further reinforcement with the expected return of Charles Omenihu from injury later this season. (FOX Sports, ESPN.com)
In a corresponding move, the Chiefs have placed tight end Jody Fortson on injured reserve due to a knee injury sustained in their recent victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. (Kansas City Star)
Former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick commented on the trade, stating, “Josh Uche is a really good rusher… He’ll have a lot of opportunities to rush in Kansas City, and I think they’ll help him.” (CBS News)
Uche is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2024 season. The Chiefs’ acquisition of Uche represents a strategic move to enhance their defensive capabilities as they pursue another Super Bowl title.(SI)
