Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Chiefs Make Contract Decision After Missing NFL Playoffs

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Jan 26, 2026 7:27 PM ET

Andy Reid did not have the 2025 NFL season he was hoping for as the Kansas City Chiefs dropped their final six games, ending with a 6-11 record and missing out on the playoffs entirely. Now, to begin the offseason, Reid has seen some major changes to his coaching staff, most notably replacing offensive coordinator Matt Nagy with Eric Bieniemy.

But Kansas City will likely have more turnover when it comes to its players, especially with the pass catchers. Tight end Travis Kelce could be on his way out as he ponders retirement, while wide receivers JuJu Smith-Schuster and Hollywood Brown become unrestricted free agents. But another familiar face will now be returning to Reid's team as they look to get back to the playoffs and the Super Bowl.

Kansas City Chiefs receiver Jason Brownlee (89) celebrates his touchdown during a preseason game© Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Jason Brownlee spent three seasons at Southern Miss from 2020 to 2022, totaling 135 catches for 2,144 yards and 21 touchdowns. He went undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft before signing with the New York Jets. Brownlee appeared in one season with New York, recording five catches for 56 yards and a touchdown, before he was released ahead of the 2024 season.

Brownlee missed the entire 2024 regular season but was added to the Chiefs’ practice squad before the playoffs. He did not appear in a game during Kansas City’s run to the Super Bowl, but he saw action in six games during the 2025 season, primarily on special teams.

But it seems Brownlee did enough during the preseason and in practice to get another chance in Kansas City, as the Chiefs have signed him to a reserve/future contract, giving Reid's offense some valuable depth, especially with other wide receivers potentially departing.

"Chiefs sign Jason Brownlee to reserve future deal," KPRC 2 Houston's Aaron Wilson wrote on X.

#Chiefs sign Jason Brownlee to reserve future deal
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) January 26, 2026

Reid and the Chiefs will look to continue reloading the roster when the free agency tampering period begins on March 9. Then, they can officially sign players two days later on March 11.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: