Kansas City Chiefs could keep Devin Chappell if he goes unclaimed
By Matt Conner
Devin Chappell might be able to stay with the Kansas City Chiefs for a while after all, but only if he goes unclaimed on waivers.
The Kansas City Chiefs gave the biggest signing bonus among undrafted free agents to defensive back Devin Chappell, so it’s unfortunate that the team had to waive him earlier on Thursday in a roster move that also included releasing Louisville wide receiver Jamari Staples so the team could bring in veteran tight end/fullback Orson Charles and former Cal safety Damariay Drew. However, Terez Paylor of the Kansas City Star has pointed out that the Chiefs could, in fact, retain the Oregon State product if no other team claims him.
Chappell has missed the last few practices with an injury. He was waived/injured, which means he goes to IR, if unclaimed.
— RIP Terez A. Paylor (@TerezPaylor) June 1, 2017
With the injury designation, Chappell would be able to spend the entire season learning the ropes and getting to know the playbook while developing in an NFL weight room with pro football trainers, nutritionists and the like. If anything it could be an exciting internship sort of program disguised as an injury issue—that is, if the injury is nothing big. If it is a serious, ongoing concern, then injured reserve also obviously makes sense there.
Last season for the Beavers, Chappell had 77 total tackles, 6 forced fumbles (a school record), 1 interception and 7 passes defended. At 6’2, 203 lbs., Chappell has the perfect frame to provide a hard-hitting safety presence on special teams and in sub package play.