Which 2022 draft picks could the Chiefs release?

The Kansas City Chiefs will enter St. Joseph with 90 roster players, but leave with 53. Which 2022 draftees are on the roster bubble?

The Kansas City Chiefs had one of, if not the, best 2022 draft class. With cornerback Trent McDuffie and defensive end George Karlaftis leading the defensive-centric class, fans are optimistic about these rookies. Many will have opportunities to contribute in 2022, both because of their talent and team needs.

Chiefs general manager Brett Veach drafted 10 rookies, his largest draft class in Kansas City. A scenario with all 10 making the initial 53-man roster is extremely improbable. The Chiefs have historically carried all their rookies, but those were much smaller draft classes. In 2021, Kansas City surprised many by cutting wide receiver Cornell Powell, a fifth-round selection that same year. Powell stayed with Kansas City on the practice squad and will compete once again for a roster spot during training camp. Any 2022 rookies cut will be common-sense additions to the Chiefs practice squad, allowing them to improve their skills and scheme knowledge.

Most of the rookies, such as offensive lineman Darian Kinnard and cornerback Joshua Williams, will be elevating themselves up Kansas City’s depth chart during training camp. A strong undrafted rookie class, headlined by wide receiver Justyn Ross and offensive weapon Jerrion Ealy, only further complicates the roster process for Kansas City. Both Ealy and Ross could reasonably make the roster, but would still surprise fans.

Training camp battles and preseason reps will help clarify which rookies stand where, but some have a steeper hill to climb. McDuffie’s and Karlaftis’s roster spots are very safe, due to their talent, team fit, and the Chiefs’ investment in each. However, three Kansas City rookies do not have the luxurious roster lock status. Which rookies could be cut before the 2022 regular season?