Cornell Powell, Zayne Anderson elevated for Chiefs vs. Rams

The Kansas City Chiefs elevated two players from the practice squad ahead of their Week 12 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.

The Kansas City Chiefs have elevated defensive back Zayner Anderson and wide receiver Cornell Powell for a Week 12 game against the Los Angeles Rams, according to an NFL personnel notice. This is Powell’s second elevation in a row and Anderson’s first since Week 6.

The moves are responsive to the Chiefs’ injury report this week. Safety Juan Thornhill and cornerback Chris Lammons are listed as questionable, so Anderson will provide flexible defensive depth. As for Powell, he is likely strictly relegated to special teams, despite wide receiver Kadarius Toney not playing tomorrow. Despite Kansas City’s thin receiving corps in Week 11, Powell only played one offensive snap but more than half of the special teams snaps against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Powell’s elevation signals more about wide receiver Marcus Kemp as well. A long-time favorite of special teams coordinator Dave Toub, Kemp has already been elevated three times this season. After the third elevation, Kemp would have to clear waivers before returning to the practice squad. If Powell can perform similarly to Kemp, then there is no reason to possibly lose Kemp.

Both are buried on the depth chart, but being prepared on gameday is best. Players like tight end Jody Fortson and wide receiver Justin Watson will fill Toney’s snaps, and safety Bryan Cook will record his first career start if Thornhill does not play. But both Powell and Anderson will see plenty of special teams action against the Rams on Sunday.