Ahead of their preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals, the Kansas City Chiefs have released their first unofficial depth chart of the season. While the roster is preliminary and subject to change, the initial alignment offers several key insights into the team’s thinking as training camp progresses.
Key Offensive Takeaways
New-Look Left Side of the Line: The most significant development appears on the offensive line, where Josh Simmons is listed as the starting left tackle and rookie Kingsley Suamataia is positioned at left guard. This alignment marks a notable shift from early last season and suggests the starting guard job is Suamataia’s to lose.
Crowded Wide Receiver Room: The chart suggests the top six receivers are Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Skyy Moore, and Tyquan Thornton. However, with fourth-round pick Jalen Royals considered a lock to make the team, a fierce competition is emerging for the final roster spots. If the Chiefs keep seven wideouts, players like Moore and Thornton could face pressure from Nikko Remigio.
Veteran Presence at Tight End: Behind Travis Kelce and Noah Gray, veteran Robert Tonyan is listed as the third tight end. He appears positioned to fill a reliable role similar to the one previously held by Blake Bell, which could make rookie Jake Briningstool a candidate for the practice squad or injured reserve as a developmental prospect.
Key Defensive and Special Teams Takeaways
Rookies Set for Key D-Line Roles: Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who is often hesitant to play rookies extensively, appears ready to give significant rotational snaps to defensive linemen Omarr Norman-Lott and Ashton Gillotte. Their high placement on the depth chart intensifies the competition for the final spots, likely leaving only one or two available for players like Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Marlon Tuipulotu, Fabien Lovett, and Malik Herring.
Looming Roster Crunch at Linebacker: The team faces difficult decisions in the linebacker corps. Undrafted rookie Jeff Bassa has impressed with his special teams ability, but incumbents Cam Jones, Jack Cochrane, and Cole Christiansen also have proven value in that area. If the Chiefs keep five linebackers as they did in 2024, at least two of these contributors may not make the final roster.
Conner Starts, Fulton Absent in Secondary: Chamarri Conner is listed as a starting safety ahead of rookie Jaden Hicks. This is likely a reflection of Conner’s extensive work as the team’s primary nickel corner, a role that should ensure Hicks still sees significant playing time alongside Bryan Cook. Meanwhile, cornerback Kristian Fulton is not on the chart as he remains on the Active/PUP list. Head coach Andy Reid noted Fulton has started running, but his return to practice remains critical.
Remigio Leads Return Game: On special teams, Nikko Remigio is currently listed as the primary punt and kick returner, with rookie Brashard Smith positioned as the main backup.
