Predicting KC Chiefs’ roster cuts before 85-man deadline

DE Austin Edwards

One of the biggest positives from Saturday’s preseason game is the overall defensive line performance. However, defensive end Austin Edwards could be on the outside looking in sooner rather than later.

Edwards has been with the Chiefs organization since January 2021 and is currently on a reserve/future contract. Edwards has usually been a decent preseason performer, but not good enough to warrant a roster spot. Edwards does offer some versatility, playing both defensive tackle and end. Edwards would have been one of the first promoted if injuries befell those positions in 2021. But, this is 2022 and the Chiefs have a whole new crop of players above Edwards.

Edwards did have some good marks during training camp, such as batted passes and good one-on-one reps. But, he has not played with the first- or second-team defense so far in training camp. He played 14 snaps in the team’s first preseason game, but failed to record any tackles or pressures.

At the end of the day, Edwards has done little to set himself apart. A quiet training camp has not set himself apart, and other defensive ends like Malik Herring and Joshua Kaindoh have a higher ceiling than Edwards. While Edwards has some value as a safe option, the Chiefs could move on and not lose much at the position.