Chiefs Practice Squad Moves: Who Returned, Who Made The 2025 Roster
The dust has settled on another day in Kansas City, and while the headlines focused on who got axed from the 53-man roster, the real story begins now. The Chiefs have quietly assembled their practice squad, a collection of 16 players (plus one international pathway member) who represent hope, perseverance and the unforgiving reality of professional football.
These aren’t just names on a depth chart. They’re dreams deferred, not destroyed. Each signature on a practice squad contract carries the weight of a player’s entire football journey, from high school Friday nights to college Saturdays to this moment where they’re one injury or one standout practice away from Sunday relevance.
The Returners: Familiar Faces Fighting for Another Shot
The Chiefs wasted no time bringing back some familiar faces, starting with wide receiver Hal Presley. For Presley, this represents continuity in an otherwise uncertain profession. He knows the system, understands the culture, and most importantly, has already proven he belongs in a Chiefs uniform, even if it’s not quite the red one he ultimately desires.
Chris Oladokun returns at quarterback, a position where depth matters more than most fans realize. The former South Florida standout has been grinding in Kansas City’s system, learning from Patrick Mahomes and serving as a capable scout team signal-caller. His retention speaks to the coaching staff’s confidence in his development and his value as a practice squad veteran.
Perhaps the most intriguing returnee is Clyde Edwards-Helaire, the former first-round pick whose NFL journey has taken unexpected turns. Once viewed as the future of Kansas City’s backfield, Edwards-Helaire now finds himself fighting to prove he still has something left in the tank. His demotion to the practice squad stings, but it also provides an opportunity to reset and remind everyone why the Chiefs invested so heavily in him just a few years ago.
Carson Steele joins Edwards-Helaire in the running back room, representing the new generation trying to break through. The undrafted rookie from Ball State showed flashes during the preseason that caught coaches’ attention. Now he gets to learn from veterans while staying ready for his moment.
The New Addition: Brodric Martin’s Fresh Start
The most significant external addition comes in the form of Brodric Martin, a defensive lineman who carries the weight of being a former third-round pick. Selected by Detroit in 2023, Martin’s path to Kansas City represents both opportunity and redemption. Third-round picks aren’t supposed to end up on practice squads, but the NFL has a way of humbling even the most promising prospects.
Martin brings size, athleticism, and most importantly, motivation. He knows what it feels like to be drafted with expectations, and he knows what it feels like to fall short of those expectations. That combination of talent and hunger makes him a fascinating addition to Kansas City’s developmental program.
The Veteran Presence: Mike Edwards’ Championship Experience
Mike Edwards returning to the practice squad carries special significance. The defensive back was part of Kansas City’s Super Bowl LVIII championship team, which means he understands what it takes to win at the highest level. His presence on the practice squad isn’t just about depth; it’s about leadership and institutional knowledge.
Edwards provides a bridge between the active roster and the developmental players. He’s been in the big games, felt the pressure, and contributed to championship-level success. That experience becomes invaluable when preparing younger players for potential call-ups.
The International Connection: Chuwuebuka Godrick’s Unique Path
Chuwuebuka Godrick occupies the 17th practice squad spot as part of the NFL’s International Player Pathway program. His journey from international obscurity to NFL relevance represents the league’s commitment to global growth, but more importantly, it represents individual determination that transcends borders.
Godrick’s story resonates because it reminds us that football talent exists everywhere, and sometimes the most unlikely paths lead to the most compelling outcomes. His retention suggests the Chiefs see genuine potential in his development as an offensive lineman.
Beyond the Roster Moves: What This All Means
These practice squad signings represent more than just procedural moves following cut day. They reflect organizational philosophy, developmental priorities, and strategic thinking about the future. The Chiefs didn’t just grab available bodies; they made calculated decisions about which players fit their culture and system.
For these players, the practice squad represents hope wrapped in uncertainty. They’re professionals earning NFL paychecks, but they’re also aware that their status could change at any moment. That tension creates motivation, urgency, and often the best kind of football preparation.
The beauty of the practice squad lies in its unpredictability. Today’s practice squad player could be next week’s game-changer. In a league where injuries happen and opportunities arise suddenly, these 17 players remain ready for their moment, whenever it might come.
