The Kansas City Chiefs have been engaged in trade talks regarding veteran pass-rusher Justin Houston, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Teams have been reaching out with "real interest" in the four-time Pro Bowler, Rapoport adds.

Houston has two seasons remaining on the six-year, $101-million megadeal he signed following an incredible 2014 campaign, during which his 22 sacks fell half a sack short of tying the single-season record.

Injuries impacted his availability during the 2015 and 2016 campaigns as he made just 16 starts over that span. He's flashed the ability to make a significant impact when healthy, though, rebounding with 18.5 sacks in 27 games over the past two seasons.

The 30-year-old has posted 78.5 sacks across an eight-year career spent entirely with the Chiefs.

Dee Ford, who's expected to receive the franchise tag ahead of free agency, would likely be forced to do even more heavy lifting for the pass rush if Kansas City moves on from its longtime defensive star.