Chiefs Secure $24 Million Starting Cornerback in Free Agency for Secondary Boost

Kansas City, MO – May 2, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs electrified their secondary on Monday, signing former Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Mike Hilton to a two-year, $24 million contract. The 31-year-old veteran, a standout nickel defender, joins the team to strengthen Kansas City’s defensive backfield following a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Hilton, who started 23 games over the past two seasons, recorded three interceptions and allowed a 78.5 passer rating in 2023. Despite a 2024 slump, his four impressive closing games and PFF coverage grades above 70.0 in six of eight seasons align perfectly with Steve Spagnuolo’s defensive scheme. “Mike’s a lockdown artist,” coach Andy Reid remarked.

The Chiefs sought a seasoned corner after releasing Joshua Williams and losing Justin Reid to the Saints. Hilton pairs with Trent McDuffie and Kristian Fulton, mentoring rookie Nohl Williams while stabilizing a secondary that gave up 4,012 passing yards in 2024. His slot expertise enhances Kansas City’s nickel packages.

Kansas City absorbed Hilton’s $12 million annual cap hit using $12.7 million in cap space, facilitated by cuts to Mike Danna and Nikko Remigio. The Chiefs, having drafted Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith, prioritized veteran depth to tackle pass-heavy offenses.

GM Brett Veach praised Hilton as “our anchor.” With two remaining picks, including No. 226, Kansas City is eyeing receiver depth to replace DeAndre Hopkins. Hilton’s signing, a major coup, has set Chiefs Kingdom ablaze with 2025 Super Bowl aspirations. His proven track record promises to elevate Mahomes’ team, fortifying a defense ready to dominate the AFC.