Chiefs roster cuts: The expected, unexpected and total surprises

Roster cuts have come and gone, and the Chiefs served up some moves as expected as well as some surprises.

Roster cut day is quickly turning into an event similar to the NFL combine and NFL draft. What happens to be a fun and curious day for most, turns into a day filled with anxiety and stress for hundreds of players hoping to make an NFL roster.

For the Kansas City Chiefs, the final 53 are set. The day has come and gone. The Chiefs moves to pare down the roster from 90 to 53 came quickly, and the transaction wire showed us a few moves as expected and a few surprises as well. Let’s break down the moves.

The expected

Justin March-Lillard 

If you are a fan of the Kansas City Chiefs you are a fan of Justin. He was a staple name when it came to community service. He gave his time on and off the field like few others do. His ode to his father struck the heartstrings of many.

However, throughout the preseason, it became abundantly clear that Justin’s time with the Chiefs may be short-lived. The chances are extremely high that he will land with a team very shortly.

Sam Ficken

Kicken Ficken was given a shot to make a name for himself when the Santos injury occurred, and for the most part he did not disappoint. He was never trying to make the Chiefs roster, however he was using the opportunity to do what he could to impress another team down the road. There are some teams looking for a kicker (looking at you Bears) that could give Ficken a chance.

The unexpected

Gavin Escobar

There was a lot of talk going into “cut day” suggesting the Chiefs would go with 4 tight ends. Gavin Escobar is a well-known player in the NFL. His signing with the Chiefs made headlines. His release, not so much.

Escobar is a valuable red zone threat. Many in the know felt like that alone would solidify himself a spot on the final roster, especially since the Chiefs have had issues near the goal line in recent memory. Before you likely read this article he will have been picked up.

Seantavious Jones

Jones seemed to be a favorite of head coach Andy Reid. More than once, he publicly gloated about the young receiver, and Jones had days where he shined during training camp. Jones performed decent in the preseason. Nothing too overwhelming to speak of, but he showed us enough that he has talent. Considering coach Reid’s fondness of Jones, would not be surprised to see him on the practice squad.

Marcus Kemp

Many thought that Kemp had done enough with his special teams play alone to possibly make the roster. Take into consideration how he took advantage of his playing time during the preseason playing very well at times, and this comes as a small but notable surprise. I am more than confident Kemp finds himself on the practice squad. Look for him to make the 53 as the year progresses.

The surprise

C.J. Spiller

When the Chiefs signed Spiller, it seemed as though nothing would come of it. Fans quickly took notice as his play during the preseason was consistently decent.

After Spencer Ware went down, it was inevitable that Spiller would make the team. That inevitability proved false. For whatever reason Chiefs management decides to go with two running backs is beyond me. Note: Anthony Sherman is not a running back.

Amidst the confusion of Spiller’s release, I believe the move was made to bring him back with a different contract. Time will tell as the Chiefs have until Thursday to figure something out. Perhaps the plan is to use DeAnthony Thomas in Spiller’s spot.

In any case what is done is done. The final 53 is set up for another run at the championship.