Key Takeaways:
– Kansas City Chiefs withdrew their tender offer to linebacker Cole Christiansen, surprising many fans and followers.
– The move comes after the Chiefs signed several undrafted free agents and conducted the 2024 NFL draft.
– Despite not drafting any linebackers, the Chiefs signed Curtis Jacobs, a free agent from Penn State, predicted to make the final roster.
– Christiansen is leaving Kansas City with two Super Bowl rings.
Revised Roster Changes Surprise Chiefs Fans*
After signing a raft of undrafted free agents, filling numerous roster voids during the 2024 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs have shocked NFL circles by withdrawing their offer to linebacker Cole Christensen. The unexpected turnover was unveiled on May 3 by KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson.
This decision has taken fans by surprise because it comes not long after the Chiefs placed an exclusive rights tender on Christensen. The 26-year-old player first joined the Chiefs’ practice squad in 2022, after starting his NFL career with the Los Angeles Chargers. He leaves the team as a two-time Super Bowl ring holder.
Christiansen’s Career Breakdown*
Christiansen made his NFL mark during the 2023 season, during which he was promoted to the active roster on five separate occasions. After his rookie year, this Army alumnus was elevated from the practice squad to the main roster following Cam Jones’ placement on injured reserve in January.
Contributing considerably to special teams, Christiansen played in three playoff games and managed to rack up two total tackles. According to Chiefs Wire’s Ed Easton Jr., these experiences could have substantially increased Christiansen’s stock ahead of the 2024 season.
Further Roster Adjustments*
On top of Christiansen’s removal, the Chiefs released Anthony Miller, Shi Smith, and Jordan Smith, also reported by Wilson. Considering that Willie Gay Jr. left in free agency, it was assumed that the Chiefs would maintain their linebacker lineup from 2023, including Christiansen, Cheney, and Cochrane, all of whom demonstrated their special teams capabilities last season.
*New Addition: Curtis Jacobs*
In a twist, the Chiefs did not draft any linebackers, but they did add to their ranks with undrafted free agent Curtis Jacobs from Penn State. Jacobs, who last season recorded 49 total tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and 2 fumble recoveries, was rated the 10th-best linebacker prospect by The Athletic’s Dane Brugler. Jacobs’ skillset, characterized by speed, and explosion, predict a solid future on special teams for him.
Potential Impact of the New Linebacker*
Jacobs’ arrival has raised predictions of him earning a spot on the 53-man roster, even despite his undrafted free agent status, as stated by AtoZ Sports’ Charles Goldman. Indeed, Goldman pinpoints Jacobs’ potential to flourish, particularly under the new kickoff rules in special teams.
Despite a few concerns about his physicality level, Jacobs demonstrates solid pursuit, giving him an upper hand in subpackage value.
The Chiefs’ unexpected roster shakeup exemplifies the incessant turbulence of the NFL, with analysts and fans constantly kept on their toes regarding team decisions. This development also places a fresh spotlight on the upcoming 2024 season, as the Chiefs’ will now aim to optimize their team structure for future campaigns.