The Kansas City Chiefs have made a major splash in the offseason by signing veteran cornerback Kristian Fulton to a two-year, $20 million deal, with $15 million guaranteed. This move signals the Chiefs’ commitment to improving their already formidable defense as they look to make another deep playoff run and return to the Super Bowl following a disappointing loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Fulton, a second-round pick by the Tennessee Titans in 2020, brings a wealth of experience, versatility, and toughness to the Chiefs’ secondary. After spending four years with the Titans, he played the 2024 season with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he started 15 games. His 2024 campaign was solid, recording 51 total tackles, seven pass breakups, and one interception. While those numbers don’t leap off the page, Fulton’s value lies in his ability to match up with a variety of receivers and play both outside and in the slot—an asset highly coveted in today’s pass-heavy NFL.
The Chiefs already have All-Pro Trent McDuffie as their top corner, but the addition of Fulton allows defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo to be more flexible with his coverage schemes. Fulton’s presence will likely allow McDuffie to shadow top opposing receivers more frequently or be moved around the field strategically, knowing there is a reliable veteran to help anchor the coverage. Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams, two promising young corners, will also benefit from Fulton’s leadership and experience.
Kansas City’s defense was already one of the best in the NFL in 2024, particularly in the postseason. However, it occasionally struggled with depth in the secondary, especially when facing high-powered offenses. Fulton gives the Chiefs an experienced, battle-tested presence who can help close out games and lock down passing attacks in crucial situations. He also brings playoff experience, having started in multiple postseason games during his time in Tennessee.
Off the field, Fulton is regarded as a high-character player and a team-first leader—qualities that fit perfectly within the Chiefs’ culture. Head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach have prioritized players who bring both talent and leadership, and Fulton appears to check both boxes.
This signing is part of a broader effort by Kansas City to address key roster needs in free agency. In addition to adding Fulton, the Chiefs have reportedly made other moves to bolster their offensive line and backfield, signaling an aggressive approach to reclaim the Super Bowl crown. With Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and a young, fast defense, the Chiefs are clearly in win-now mode.
Ultimately, Fulton’s signing may not grab the same headlines as a star receiver or pass rusher, but it could prove to be one of the smartest moves of the offseason. If he stays healthy and performs to his potential, Fulton could help elevate Kansas City’s defense from great to elite—exactly what they need to capture another Lombardi Trophy.
Would you like a breakdown of how Fulton compares statistically to the Chiefs’ current cornerbacks?
