Chiefs Waive Kolby Smith, 5 Others

The Chiefs have begun to trim down their roster, likely in preparation of signing their draft picks.One of those signed, was former Herm Edwards draft pick Kolby Smith.

Via Josh Looney’s Teitter:

"JoshLooney Chiefs waive RB Kolby Smith, QB Matt Gutierrez and four others (DB Andre Jones, OL Nick Landry, OL Jermail Porter, TE Leroy Banks)"

Smith was a former 5th round pick. His career in KC has been underwhelming as he has spent more time injured than on the field. Last year, coach Todd Haley had high praise for Smith. Haley seemed to like the way Smith fought his way back on to the field after his previous injury. Haley was even giving Smith more reps than Jamaal Charles for a short time but then Smith was injured again.

This year, however, with the additions of Dexter McCluster and Thomas Jones, the running back position is much stronger than it was in 2009. Smith was already on thin ice and it appears he did not impress the coaches in the offseason practices.

The other notable cut is at QB. Matt Gutierrez, the Chiefs 3rd string QB for most of last season has been given the axe. Gutierrez was brought in by Pioli after being cut by the Patriots.

This offseason, the Chiefs brought in journeymen QB Tyler Palko. Most thought Palko would merely be a camp arm but when #2 QB Brodie Croyle injured his hand, Palko saw increased reps and has now worked his way in to the #2 offense. Croyle may eventually overtake him once he gets back in to the swing of things but Gutierrez apparently could not keep up.

These 2 cuts send a message to the roster that no one is really safe and that even the bottom of the roster nobodies will be given a fair shot if they can do the work.