Chiefs Trade QB Shane Buechele to Patriots , Reacquire Super Bowl LIV & LVII Champion Frank Clark

According to ESPN and posts on X, the Kansas City Chiefs have executed a notable trade, sending backup quarterback Shane Buechele and a 2026 seventh-round pick to the New England Patriots. In return, the Chiefs acquired a 2026 sixth-round pick and priority waiver status. This deal not only addresses the Patriots’ need for a reliable backup quarterback for Drake Maye but also paves the way for Kansas City to re-sign former defensive star and Super Bowl LIV and LVII champion Frank Clark.

Buechele, 27, spent three seasons with the Chiefs, primarily as the third-string quarterback behind Patrick Mahomes and Carson Wentz. With only six pass attempts in his NFL career, he’s a sensible addition for the Patriots, who are seeking a dependable backup for Maye, coming off a turbulent rookie season. “Shane is a consummate professional, always prepared. He’ll be an asset for New England,” Chiefs GM Brett Veach said.

In exchange, the Chiefs leveraged the sixth-round pick and cap savings to sign Frank Clark to a one-year deal. The edge rusher, who recorded 13 sacks in playoff games for Kansas City, bolsters a defense looking to rebound from a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss. “Frank understands our culture. He’s part of the soul of this locker room,” head coach Andy Reid said, emphasizing Clark’s experience and connection to the team.

Clark, 31, who left the Chiefs in 2023 to join the Denver Broncos and later played for the Seattle Seahawks, expressed excitement about his return. “Kansas City is home. I’m ready to fight for another ring,” he posted on X with the hashtag #ChiefsKingdom. Chiefs fans on X echoed the enthusiasm: “Frank Clark back? Our defense is about to go off!” wrote @ChiefsFanatic.

The trade and Clark’s signing save the Chiefs approximately $4 million in cap space, strengthening a defensive line already featuring Chris Jones and George Karlaftis. With a 9-2 record in the 2025 season, Kansas City is eyeing Super Bowl LX, and Clark’s return is expected to amplify pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Meanwhile, the Patriots hope Buechele brings stability to an offense heavily reliant on Maye. “We value Shane’s professionalism and potential. He’s a valuable addition,” Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo said.

This trade is a strategic move for the Chiefs, optimizing resources while reuniting with a proven veteran. As the 2025 season progresses, Clark’s return promises to be a game-changer for Kansas City. Stay tuned to NFL Network for updates on the Chiefs and their next moves!