Three high-profile Chiefs who may not be back for 2023

The Chiefs have $11 million in cap space, per Spotrac, but must create more financial room if they plan to make a big splash in the 2023 free-agent pool.

Frank Clark, DE

Cutting Clark, a three-time Pro Bowler, would be a surprise, but it makes financial sense. According to OverTheCap, Clark's release before or after the June 1 deadline creates $21M in cap savings.

The Chiefs have a possible successor: rookie defensive end George Karaliftis, who had six sacks in 17 games, second most on the team. Clark had five in 15 games. 

The Chiefs shouldn't commit to a player who may not be there for the long term and is possibly exiting his prime. Clark, a free agent in 2024, turns 30 next season.  

Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR

The Chiefs might have to choose between Scantling and 2022 free-agent signee JuJu Smith-Schuster. Both are solid, but Smith-Schuster was more productive. He had 78 receptions in 17 games, second most for Kansas City; Valdes-Scantling caught 42 passes. 

Per Spotrac, Smith-Schuster's market value is a four-year deal with a $14.6M in annual salary. 

If the Chiefs cut Valdes-Scantling after the deadline, they'll save $9M in cap room and incur $2M in dead money; cutting him before the deadline saves $7M.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB

Edwards-Helaire's release only saves $866K in cap room and incurs $2.6M in dead money, but the Chiefs are wasting a roster spot and his career by keeping him. 

Edwards-Helaire, a 2020 first-round draft pick, started in six games this season before rookie Isiah Pacheco became the featured RB. He struggled with injuries, missing the final seven regular-season games with a high-ankle sprain. 

Although Kansas City activated him from injured reserve for Super Bowl LVII, his may not play much Sunday. He only played 32% of offensive snaps this season.