NFL Tampering Allegations: Chiefs, Patriots, and Commanders Under Investigation. Tampering in the NFL has long been a controversial issue, with the league enforcing strict rules to prevent teams from engaging in premature negotiations with free agents before the official free agency window opens. This season, teams were allowed to begin discussions with free agents on March 10, two days before signings could be made official on March 12. However, some organizations have been accused of violating these rules by initiating contact earlier than allowed.
Chiefs, Patriots, and Commanders Accused of Tampering
The Kansas City Chiefs, Washington Commanders, and New England Patriots are reportedly under investigation for potential tampering involving offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley. According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, all three teams allegedly extended contract offers to Stanley before the legal tampering period, matching the Baltimore Ravens’ three-year, $60 million deal before he ultimately chose to stay in Baltimore. In fact, reports indicate that Washington and New England may have offered even more lucrative deals than what Stanley accepted.
If the allegations are proven true, these teams could face severe consequences similar to past tampering violations. The Miami Dolphins forfeited a first-round pick in 2022 for their unauthorized pursuit of Tom Brady and Sean Payton, while the Atlanta Falcons lost a fifth-round pick in 2023 for early negotiations with quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Suspicious Moves on the Offensive Line
Further fueling speculation, all three teams made significant moves at the tackle position shortly after failing to land Stanley. The Chiefs signed left tackle Jaylon Moore, the Commanders traded for All-Pro tackle Laremy Tunsil, and the Patriots acquired former Jets tackle Morgan Moses. While these transactions do not confirm wrongdoing, they add to the circumstantial evidence that these teams were aggressively pursuing offensive line reinforcements even before the legal tampering period.
Chiefs’ Offensive Line Overhaul
For Kansas City, reinforcing the offensive line was a top priority after struggling in Super Bowl 59, where they were overwhelmed by the Philadelphia Eagles’ dominant defensive front. This echoed their Super Bowl 55 loss to Tom Brady’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which prompted a complete offensive line overhaul the following offseason. Given this history, it would not be surprising to see the Chiefs take similar measures again.
Despite the tampering allegations, Kansas City has been proactive in solidifying its offense. The team retained key free agents and bolstered its receiving corps. Health remains a crucial factor for the Chiefs, as injuries plagued them throughout last season. Wide receiver Rashee Rice, who set a postseason record with 26 receptions as a rookie, is expected to return to full strength and form a dangerous duo with fellow young star Xavier Worthy. Worthy made history as the first rookie to record multiple touchdown receptions in a Super Bowl, tallying eight catches for 157 yards and two scores in the Chiefs’ loss in Super Bowl 59.
Additionally, the Chiefs re-signed Hollywood Brown, another key piece who missed most of last season due to injury. With veteran tight end Travis Kelce potentially entering his final season, having a fully healthy supporting cast should allow Patrick Mahomes to rebound from one of his least productive statistical years. If their offensive playmakers stay on the field, the Chiefs’ offense could once again emerge as one of the most feared units in the league in 2025.
What’s Next?
While the Chiefs, Patriots, and Commanders remain innocent until proven guilty, the NFL’s investigation could result in significant penalties if tampering is confirmed. Draft pick forfeitures, hefty fines, and potential suspensions for team executives are all possible outcomes. For now, these teams will continue to focus on preparing for the 2025 season while awaiting the league’s final decision.
