In a surprising move that affects the team’s defensive depth, the Kansas City Chiefs have released Jaye Howard.
The Kansas City Chiefs have released defensive tackle Jaye Howard, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. It’s a move to help recoup a bit of financial relief as they hope the veteran is picked up by another team.
Chiefs released DE Jaye Howard in part because they owe him $2.5M gtd. They want him to sign with another team to get back some offset money
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 22, 2017
Howard was returning from a season-ending injury but was reportedly on track to return for his contract year. The Chiefs lost both Howard and fellow defensive lineman Allen Bailey for the season last year, which helped provide room for rookie Chris Jones and second-year pro Rakeem Nunez-Roches to grow into a larger role. With both veterans coming back, the Chiefs apparently decided Howard was the odd man out.
The Chiefs also swapped out Bennie Logan for Dontari Poe after Poe hit the free agent market earlier this offseason. Logan is on a one-year deal to help anchor the middle.
Earlier this offseason, we spoke to Howard who expressed his desire and passion to come back and play for the Chiefs, citing the team’s fans and coaches and atmosphere as key reasons to want to return beyond just 2017.
"“Coach Reid is a great coach. He gave me an opportunity when a lot of people wouldn’t. I definitely appreciate it and whenever I’m out there, I’m going to give him my all because I respect him. He’s building something great here in Kansas City and, as I said, I just want to be a part of it.”"
The 28-year-old played in 8 games last season for the Chiefs, making five starts.