Longtime NFL executive Bill Polian will be exploring NFL options in 2013, sources said, and numerous NFL execs believe he could be with the Chiefs next month.

As previously reported, sources said Kansas City’s embattled general manager Scott Pioli was offered a contract extension prior to the season but did not sign it, and Chiefs owner Clark Hunt is under intense pressure to retool the coaching staff and front office in 2013. Hunt is a private man and sensitive to criticism, according to many who have worked for him.

The 69-year-old Polian is vastly experienced and very hands on, brings immediate credibility and has a high profile that could provide a buffer for Hunt, who does not oversee the day-to-day operations. Polian has succeeded with numerous franchises and with perhaps six GM jobs opening up, this could be a year where several former executives get back in the game.

The Polians and Hunt could be a logical fit, with Polian filling a role similar to the one played by Carl Peterson in Kansas City from 1989-2008. Polian's son Chris, also a former Colts GM, could become involved in personnel with the Chiefs as well.