Chiefs training camp roster outlook after first week of practices
After eight practice sessions, analysts project a 53-man roster for the Kansas City Chiefs, highlighting likely starters and borderline players on both offense and defense.
The Kansas City Chiefs have completed eight practices at their training camp, prompting a provisional 53-man roster based on observations from staff and press conferences. On offense, the quarterback group includes Patrick Mahomes, Justin Fields and rookie Garrett Nussmeier, with the latter earning a roster spot after a strong camp. The running back depth chart appears set with Kenneth Walker, Brashard Smith, Emari Demercado and Emmett Johnson. Wide receiver selections feature Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, Tyquan Thornton, Cyrus Allen, Jalen Royals and Andrew Armstrong, with Armstrong favored over Nikko Remigio. Tight ends Travis Kelce, Noah Gray and Jared Wiley are projected to make the team, while Jake Briningstool is considered a possible mid-season addition. The offensive line is expected to carry Joshua Simmons, Kingsley Suamataia, Creed Humphrey, Trey Smith, Kahlil Benson, Jaylon Moore, Esa Pole, Hunter Nourzad and Mike Caliendo, with a close decision between Caliendo and Ethan Driskell.
Defensively, the interior line likely includes Chris Jones, Khyiris Tonga, Peter Woods and Omarr Norman-Lott, with Marcus Harris noted for occasional impact plays. The defensive end group comprises George Karlaftis, Ashton Gillotte, Felix Anudike-Uzomah, R Mason Thomas and Tyreke Smith, with Smith projected as a game-day inactive. Linebacker depth features Nick Bolton, Drue Tranquill, Jeffrey Bassa, Cole McDonald and Jack Cochrane. In the secondary, cornerbacks Mansoor Delane, Nohl Williams, L’Jarius Sneed, Kristian Fulton, Kader Kohou and Jadon Canady are listed, with Kohou favored over Kevin Knowles. Safeties Alohi Gilman, Chamarri Conner, Christian Roland-Wallace, Jaden Hicks and Xavier Nwankpa round out the defensive backs. Special teams are projected to retain placekicker Harrison Butker, punter Matt Araiza and long snapper James Winchester.