Chiefs bring back starting linebacker Nick Bolton on $45 million contract

The Chiefs have secured a key component of their defense by re-signing linebacker Nick Bolton to a three-year, $45 million contract, with $30 million guaranteed.This comes as the Chiefs aim to retool their defense following another Super Bowl appearance last season, according to ESPN.Since being selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Bolton has been instrumental in the Chiefs’ defensive prowess, which has continually been a leading factor in their dominance.Bolton emerged immediately, leading the team with 112 tackles and earning a reputation as a quality run-stopper as a rookie starter.Over the past four seasons, Bolton has accumulated 458 tackles, including a franchise-record 180 in 2022.The consistent performance from the Missouri product has solidified his role as a central figure in the Chiefs’ defense.His new contract is worth $15 million per year, positioning Bolton among the top-paid inside linebackers in the NFL.Bolton has started 53 of his 57 NFL appearances, recording five sacks and four interceptions with two forced fumbles.Bolton ran back a fumble recovery for an 86-yard touchdown as a rookie.The two-time Super Bowl champion also ran back a 36-yard Jalen Hurts fumble for a touchdown in the Chiefs 2023 Super Bowl win against the Eagles.The Chiefs failed to secure a historic Super Bowl three-peat this season, falling to those same Eagles, 40-22....