Chiefs Trim Roster to 53: Elijah Mitchell Beats Out Promising rookie, Veterans Fall Victim to Cuts
Kansas city, MO – August 27, 2025 - The Kansas City Chiefs finalized their 53-man roster on Tuesday, making several tough decisions as they prepare to defend their championship title. The most notable move saw veteran running back Elijah Mitchell secure a spot, while second-year player Carson Steele was released, despite a promising start to his career.
“Everybody can’t make the team,” a somber Andy Reid acknowledged.”ItS a tough day.That’s not part of the job you like, but inevitably you got to almost cut half a team. So, that’s not an easy thing.”
The running back position proved to be fiercely competitive.Steele, an undrafted free agent who impressed in the 2024 preseason and even started three games following Isiah Pacheco‘s injury, ultimately fell short. He failed to capitalize on a crucial 4th and 1 attempt in the recent preseason, while Mitchell demonstrated his value with a touchdown against the Chicago Bears.
Mitchell: A familiar, Explosive Option
The Chiefs’ decision to retain Mitchell, signed to a one-year, $2.5 million contract, reflects a calculated gamble. General Manager Brett Veach drew parallels between Mitchell and former Chief jerick McKinnon, noting his potential to be an “explosive dynamic” in both the running and passing game.
However,Veach also acknowledged Mitchell’s injury history - the running back has twice landed on injured reserve with knee and hamstring issues in his four-year career. “It’s not a secret with him. He’s got to stay healthy,” Veach stated.
The Chiefs will now rely on a running back room consisting of Mitchell, Pacheco, Kareem Hunt, and rookie brashard Smith – a converted receiver drafted earlier this year.The team also saw former first-round pick Clyde Edwards-Helaire released by the new Orleans Saints.Vested Veterans Also Face the Axe
Beyond the running back competition, the Chiefs also released three vested veterans: safety Mike Edwards, defensive tackle Mike Pennel, and tight end Robert Tonyan. Mike Edwards: Signed this offseason to a one-year, $1.338 million deal, Edwards’ departure signals a shift in the safety corps.
Mike Pennel: An 11-year veteran and Super Bowl LIV champion, Pennel’s position was threatened by the signing of Derrick N
