Mike Pennel to meet with Chiefs to discuss new contract

The Kansas City Chiefs have reportedly scheduled a meeting with Mike Pennel’s representatives to work out a way to bring back the defensive lineman.

One of the best moves pulled off by Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach this season was the signing of defensive lineman Mike Pennel. Now it looks like Veach is ready to do so again with word from FanSided’s Matt Verderame that the Chiefs and Pennel’s representatives are meeting later this week to talk about a new contract.

Pennel first signed with the Chiefs at midseason on October 19 after the team lost Xavier Williams. From the moment he arrived, the run defense improved considerably thanks to his presence along the defensive interior along with other strategic moves made by defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo (including more playing time for Reggie Ragland).

Pennel continued to come up big for the Chiefs as the season wore on, and Pennel was particularly impressive in the postseason, such as the comeback win over the Tennessee Titans.

Pennel had 24 tackles in limited duty in 8 total games for the Chiefs, including 2 tackles for a loss and a single sack. His ability to come in and help control the line of scrimmage also allowed Spags to rest Derrick Nnadi, Chris Jones and others at key times.

If Pennel returns, the Chiefs will have one of the league’s best defensive interiors if Jones can also come back as hoped on a long-term deal (or at least the franchise tag). Khalen Saunders remains in place as a promising third round pick from last year’s draft, which gives the Chiefs plenty of depth going back into another season to defend their crown.