Final Chiefs 53-man roster predictions: Brett Veach faces some tough decisions

Wide Receivers (7)

• Marquez Valdes-Scantling
• Kadarius Toney
• Skyy Moore
• Justin Watson
• Richie James
• Justyn Ross
• Rashee Rice

Ihmir Smith-Marsette has done enough that he should get strong consideration for the roster. He had another impressive performance in Saturday's preseason finale, but Justin Watson's experience will be an obstacle. However you feel about Watson, he clearly has the trust of the Chiefs' coaching staff. All things considered, Smith-Marsette and Cornell Powell did as much as you can ask of them, but it won't be enough with so many promising, young wideouts ahead of them on the depth chart.

Tight Ends (3)

• Travis Kelce
• Noah Gray
• Blake Bell

The Chiefs may consider carrying four here, but my roster would keep this group slim to allow for additional roster spots elsewhere. The tight end group comes with no surprises. Matt Bushman put another quality preseason under his belt in 2023. Although, he may have made a more compelling roster case last year. This season, he's flashed, but hasn't put himself in good position to stick this time around. Hopefully, he'll have an opportunity to stay on the practice squad or catch on elsewhere.

Offensive Linemen (9)

• Donovan Smith
• Joe Thuney
• Creed Humphrey
• Trey Smith
• Jawaan Taylor
• Wanya Morris
• Nick Allegretti
• Darian Kinnard
• Lucas Niang

This will be another position group where there should be no controversy. The starting five is set and the reserve players are largely familiar faces. Morris will figure into the team's future and could very well be a starting tackle next year when Donovan Smith moves on.