Chiefs Make Shocking Roster Moves: Key Defensive Cuts Signal Unexpected Strategy Shift

The Kansas City Chiefs have been busy juggling their roster, carving out spots for sixteen fresh faces straight outta college—undrafted free agents looking to prove their mettle. To make way, the team said goodbye to defensive end BJ Thompson and linebacker Blake Lynch—moves that might sting for fans but are part of the ruthless chess game NFL teams play. Thompson, a fifth-round pick from last year, is recovering from a frightening health scare last June that saw him collapse during a special teams meeting. Luckily, if he clears waivers, he’ll move to injured reserve and keep working on his comeback. Lynch, meanwhile, contributed in a handful of games, having a journeyman’s resume spanning the Vikings, Chargers, and now the Chiefs. These roster tweaks underscore how cutthroat and unpredictable NFL life can be, especially when fresh talent is knocking on the door. Here’s the lowdown on the new crop of hopefuls eyeing a spot in KC’s lineup—each bringing their own story, grit, and hunger to the table.LEARN MORE

To that end, the team waived defensive end BJ Thompson and released linebacker Blake Lynch, Matt Derrick of Chiefs Digest reports. Thompson will revert to the Chiefs’ injured reserve if he clears waivers, allowing him to continue his rehab.The undrafted free agents signed by the Chiefs were Florida wide receiver Elijhah Badger, Oklahoma State offensive tackle Dalton Cooper, Maryland safety Glendon Miller, Washington State offensive tackle Esa Pole, Pittsburgh linebacker Brandon George, Penn State defensive tackle Coziah Izzard, Southern Arkansas cornerback Melvin Smith Jr., Fresno State wide receiver Mac Dalena, USC punter Eddie Czaplicki, Texas A&M tight end Tre Watson, USC cornerback Jacobe Covington, Western Kentucky running back Elijah Young, Tennessee safety Will Brooks, Florida State defensive back Kevin Knowles II and San Jose State wide receiver Justin Lockhart.Thompson, a fifth-round pick in 2023, was in a special teams meeting at the team facility last June when he had a seizure and went into cardiac arrest. He spent last season on the non-football illness list. The Chiefs needed roster spots to sign 16 undrafted free agents.He appeared in one game during his rookie season, making two tackles in 28 defensive snaps and 16 on special teams.

Lynch played one game with the Chiefs last season, seeing action on 25 defensive snaps and 22 on special teams. He made six tackles.He has played 29 games with seven starts in his career with the Vikings, Chargers and Chiefs.