The Kansas City Chiefs were said to have lots and lots of talent despite their 2-14 finish in 2012, something that was reinforced with an 11-5 finish in 2013. We know that the Chiefs have some players who are going to be coming up for new contracts. In 2013, they had two of the best values in football.
Spotrac released their AFC and NFC all-value team, which is a list of the players who gave you the most production for the least amount of money. The players with the most team-friendly contracts, essentially.
On Spotrac's list are two Chiefs players -- RB Jamaal Charles and LB Justin Houston. According to their numbers, Charles cost $3 million in cash while Houston cost $580,000. Charles is under contract for two more seasons while Houston is under contract for just one more season.
Houston will have to be paid at some point. If he puts up a big season, he could break the bank. Non-QBs generally haven't gotten the huge deals since the new CBA came out nearly three years ago, but Houston's age and his value to Bob Sutton's defense could mean big money.
Charles' contract could also be looked at before it's up. Considering the type of player he is, he seems underpaid. The Chiefs have him under contract for at least two more years though.
The key to being a great team year in and year out is drafting well and having lots of talented players, such as Houston, on their rookie contracts, which are very cheap. The Seahawks, 49ers, Panthers and Colts are all a special part of this group because their quarterbacks are on cheaper rookie deals.