The Kansas City Chiefs are bringing in some cornerback help.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that CB Robert Rochell, who spent last season with the Packers, has signed with the Chiefs on a one-year deal.
Rochell began his career with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021, being selected out of Central Arkansas in the fourth round. In his rookie season, he was placed on injured reserve, and then in 2023, he was released during final roster cuts. The cornerback then signed to the Seattle Seahawks practice squad, but was released just a few weeks later. He was then signed to the Carolina Panthers practice squad.
The Packers swooped in and signed Rochell off the Panthers practice squad in October 2023.
Rochell had spent parts of the last two seasons in and out of the Packers' active roster and practice squad. Last year, he played exactly one defensive snap the entire season, but 27.4% of the special teams snaps. Something similar had happened in 2023, with Rochell playing only on teams for 26% of the snaps, but with no defensive role.
Even though Rochell didn't play much on the Packers' defense, the cornerback depth is a real concern. The Green Bay has also allowed Eric Stokes (Las Vegas Raiders) and Corey Ballentine (Indianapolis Colts) to walk in free agency. Jaire Alexander is also expected to be traded or released, and the only significant addition was Nate Hobbs. The cornerback room also has Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, Kamal Hadden, Kalen King, Isaiah Dunn, and Kaleb Hayes.
Because of his abilities on special teams, it appears to confirm what many fans are already thinking: Special teams coordinator Dave Toub has some control over roster decisions in Kansas City.
Across his time in the NFL, Rochell has 25 total tackles, three fumble recoveries, one interception, and four passes defended. The 26-year-old is listed at 6-foot and 198 pounds. He's an exceptional athlete, posting a 4.41s 40-yard dash, 43-inch vertical jump, 133-inch broad jump, 4.08s short shuttle, and 6.84s 3-cone back at his pro day in 2021.
He adds more depth at the cornerback position for Kansas City, while also being able to contribute on special teams.
