Kansas City Chiefs complete 53-man roster for the 2024 season

The Kansas City Chiefs have finalized their 53-man roster for the upcoming NFL season. Here’s a breakdown of every player and reactions to the latest roster moves and trades on the most important cutdown day.

Chiefs Acquire TE Payton Hendershot from Cowboys

The reigning NFL champions, the Chiefs, have traded a late-round conditional pick to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for tight end Payton Hendershot.

Hendershot is expected to step in as the team’s fourth tight end, replacing Irv Smith Jr., who was released earlier. While Hendershot’s 15 receptions for 141 yards and two touchdowns aren’t flashy, he adds depth to a tight end group that could see significant usage this season.

Quarterbacks: Mahomes Leads the Way

The Kansas City Chiefs have decided to have two quarterbacks on their active roster: superstar Patrick Mahomes and veteran Carson Wentz.

This is consistent with the team’s typical approach of carrying only two quarterbacks under head coach Andy Reid, which has proven to be a successful strategy.

Running Backs: A New Dynamic

Rookie running back Deneric Prince has not made the final roster, leaving Isiah Pacheco and Carson Steele as the primary backs. Steele, who impressed during the preseason, is expected to fill a hybrid running back/fullback role. His versatility could be key in the Chiefs’ offense, and with odds already placing him as a potential Week 1 touchdown scorer, Steele could be a name to watch.

Wide Receivers: A Mix of Youth and Experience

The wide receiver room is set with the Chiefs carrying seven players, including newcomers and familiar faces. JuJu Smith-Schuster returns to Kansas City after a stint with the New England Patriots, joining Xavier Worthy, Rashee Rice, and Marquise “Hollywood” Brown. MeCole Hardman, Skyy Moore, and Justin Watson round out the group. Notably absent is Kadarius Toney, whose time in Kansas City has come to an end after a mixed tenure that included a memorable Super Bowl punt return.

Tight Ends: A Strong Group with High Expectations

After releasing Irv Smith Jr. and adding Payton Hendershot, the Chiefs’ tight end group now includes Travis Kelce, Jared Wiley, and Noah Gray.

This trio should be heavily involved, particularly in two-tight-end formations, with Wiley, a talented rookie from TCU, expected to have a major role.

Offensive Line: Stability and Surprises

The Kansas City Chiefs currently have 10 offensive linemen on their roster, featuring key players such as Joe Thuney, Wanya Morris, and Jawaan Taylor. Lucas Niang, who was once viewed as a potential starter, has been released after the team was unable to find a trade partner for him. His departure marks the conclusion of his tenure in Kansas City.

Defense: Depth and Versatility

The Kansas City defense has nine defensive linemen, with Chris Jones and George Karlaftis leading the unit. To strengthen their depth, the team acquired Cam Thomas from the Arizona Cardinals.

The linebacker group is anchored by Nick Bolton, who is focused on increasing his turnover production this season. Drew Tranquill, Leo Chenal, and Cam Jones completed the unit and are expected to contribute significantly.

The Chiefs have six cornerbacks in the secondary, including Trent McDuffie, who had an All-Pro season. The safety unit consists of four players, including standout rookie Jaden Hicks, who has impressed during training camp.

Special Teams: Ready for Week 1

The Kansas City special teams unit consists of kicker Harrison Butker, newly signed punter Matt Araiza, and long snapper James Winchester. Despite a preseason injury, Winchester is expected to be ready for Week 1.

With the roster finalized, the Chiefs appear prepared to defend their Super Bowl title as they prepare to start the season against the Baltimore Ravens.