Kansas City, MO – April 27, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs made bold roster moves Sunday, cutting four players—defensive end Mike Danna, wide receiver Nikko Remigio, cornerback Jaylen Watson, and running back Carson Steele—to clear space for their 2025 NFL Draft class, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The cuts, following a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, align with Kansas City’s push to integrate rookies and refine their roster.
Danna, 27, carried an $8.5 million cap hit but struggled with 3 sacks and a PFF grade of 68.4 in 2024 (NFL.com). His departure, saving $6 million with a $2.5 million dead cap, makes way for rookie Ashton Gillotte (pick 66), who joins George Karlaftis (Spotrac). Remigio, 25, a reserve with zero catches, was expendable after the Chiefs drafted Jalen Royals (pick 133) to bolster their receiving corps.
Watson, 26, posted a PFF grade of 62.4, overshadowed by rookie Nohl Williams (pick 85) and starters Trent McDuffie and Kristian Fulton. His $1.4 million cap hit was cut to prioritize secondary depth. Steele, 22, managed a PFF grade of 60.5 as a rookie running back, but Brashard Smith (pick 228) offers superior speed and special teams value, rendering Steele’s $1 million cap hit unnecessary.
“These moves sharpen our edge,” GM Brett Veach told reporters, referencing the Chiefs’ draft haul of Simmons, Norman-Lott, Gillotte, Williams, Royals, Bassa, and Smith. With $12.7 million in cap space, Kansas City eyes free agents like Julian Blackmon to replace Justin Reid (‽web:8). Coach Andy Reid emphasized youth: “Our rookies are ready.”
The cuts signal a shift toward a faster, deeper roster as the Chiefs aim to rebound in 2025. With three remaining picks, including No. 226, Kansas City targets wide receiver depth to support Patrick Mahomes’ championship aspirations.
