Titans' experience with L'Jarius Sneed shouldn't dissuade Mike Borgonzi from pilfering Chiefs' defensive back room in 2026
When the Tennessee Titans traded for former Chiefs cornerback L'Jarius Sneed in 2024, it was actually Titans executive Chad Brinker and Chiefs executive Mike Borgonzi who hammered out the specifics of the trade. That move has proven to be... well, disastrous. Sneed hasn't played at an elite level, and more importantly, he hasn't been available most of the time.
The irony, of course, is that Borgonzi went from the guy selling Sneed off to the guy saddled with the big fat contract Ran Carthon gave him within a matter of months. He's the GM Brinker hired in 2025 to fix the Titans roster, and a massive area of focus now is that cornerback position. Not only is Sneed proving himself unable to be in the future plans of this team, but the Titans have traded their other two preseason starters at corner this season too. So Borgonzi has his work cut out for him in that position room.
And while it may feel like begging history to repeat itself, there are options on the Chiefs roster that Borgonzi knows well and could look to acquire in the new year.
Three familiar cornerbacks Mike Borgonzi could target in 2026
There are three Chiefs defensive backs that could land with a new team after the 2025 season: Jaylen Watson, Josh Williams, and Bryan Cook. Mike Borgonzi will have a whole league's worth of DB free agents to consider in the spring, but it stands to reason he has the best understanding of these three from his time in that building. I reached out to A to Z Sports Chiefs writer Charles Goldman for his two cents on each of these defenders. Here's what he had to say:
Jaylen Watson: Watson just might be the most underrated piece to the Chiefs’ three-year run from 2022-2024. He’s been the one constant the team has had in the secondary opposite Trent McDuffie at the outside cornerback spot. I often think back to his first career interception in 2023, which was a 99-yard return for a touchdown that single-handedly won the game against the division rival Los Angeles Chargers. He’s started 22 career regular-season games and has appeared in 46. If the Chiefs didn’t have so many pieces from their 2022 draft class to pay, I have zero doubts in my mind that Watson would be a priority. The success of Nohl Williams makes Watson expendable as a free agent, which means some team out there will capitalize and pay the former seventh-round pick out of Washington State.
Josh Williams: Williams has seen his role reduced in Kansas City, but he still has the physical talent and skillset to be a starter in this league. I’m convinced that had he timed a few plays better earlier during his career, he would be playing defense for the Chiefs instead of special teams. He has the size, speed, and coverage ability to match up with the NFL’s big-play receivers. His problem is locating and making a play on the football when it’s in the air, which has led to some bad penalties and receptions allowed. He was always going to have a longer development track, being drafted out of Fayetteville State. He’s only started 12 regular-season games, but he’s appeared in 58. He feels like someone who could have a long NFL career if he finds a landing spot that can handle the ups and downs, knowing he’s always at least in a position to make a play.
Bryan Cook: He’s started 38 games across four seasons in Kansas City so far. He suffered a pretty substantial ankle injury 12 games into what was a breakout 2023 NFL season. He got back the following year, but it took him until 2025 to really look like himself on the field again. He’s missed a single tackle, broken up two passes, and has allowed just nine receptions for 89 yards and a score this season. He’s the player who has really stepped up in place of Justin Reid as the leader in the secondary for Kansas City. Still, they’ve got a trio of cheaper and younger guys in Chamarri Conner, Jaden Hicks, and Chris Roland-Wallace, which makes me believe they’ll probably let Cook walk in free agency.
Cooper Kupp Vows to Prove Himself: ‘I’m Here to Make a Difference, Not Just Plays’
After facing multiple injuries and setbacks, Cooper Kupp is back with a vengeance. The Los Angeles Rams’ star wide receiver has long been known for his elite ability to make plays, but now, he’s setting his sights on something even greater: making a lasting impact. In a recent interview, Kupp confidently declared,
Kupp has always been a player who gives it his all, but his words show that he is now more motivated than ever to prove that he can still dominate at the highest level. Despite battling injuries over the past season, including a major setback that kept him out of multiple games, Kupp’s confidence in his abilities remains unwavering. As one of the most accomplished receivers in the league, with a
His statement reflects not just confidence but a deep understanding of what it takes to be great in the NFL. For Kupp, success isn’t simply about individual accolades, it’s about making a difference for his team. While his individual success has been impressive, he recognizes that his contributions are more valuable when they elevate the entire offense.
“I’m not just here to catch passes and rack up stats,” Kupp said. “I’m here to change the game and help this team win at the highest level. I know the pressure is on, but that’s what drives me. I’m going to give everything I have to make sure we’re competing for a championship again.
Kupp’s leadership and determination are exactly what the Rams need as they try to bounce back from an up-and-down season. As quarterback Matthew Stafford continues to adjust to the new offensive system, Kupp will be relied on as a consistent and reliable target. He has already built a strong rapport with Stafford in their time together, and their chemistry will be key as the Rams push toward the playoffs.
Kupp’s attitude is one of total commitment. His injuries have only fueled his desire to return to top form, and he’s putting in the work to ensure he comes back stronger than ever. With a fresh mindset and an unyielding determination to leave a legacy, Kupp is more than ready to lead the charge for the Rams and remind the league why he’s one of the best in the game.
As the season progresses, Kupp’s focus will be on more than just making plays. He’s determined to be a game-changer, a leader, and an example of excellence for the Rams. Whether it's through clutch catches, key leadership moments, or simply showing up when it matters most, Kupp is committed to making a difference.
His message is clear: the best of Cooper Kupp is still ahead of him, and he’s ready to prove to the world that he’s not finished yet.
