The Chiefs continued a flurry of roster moves ahead of Week 1 with a surprise cut, waiving DT Neil Farrell on Saturday.
Farrell was thought to be a contender for a starting role on the defensive line. At the least, conventional wisdom suggested he'd be a major part of the rotation along the interior. Instead, the 25-year-old tackle will look for a new home instead.
In corresponding moves, Kansas City also waived DT Matt Dickerson while adding RB Emani Bailey and DT Marlon Tuipulotu to the practice squad.
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) August 31, 2024We have signed RB Emani Bailey and DT Marlon Tuipulotu to the Practice Squad.
We have terminated the Practice Squad contracts of DT Matt Dickerson and DT Neil Farrell. pic.twitter.com/pr6WdZ2Nce
Farrell appeared in only three games for the Chiefs in 2023 but showed tremendous promise throughout the summer. A fourth-round pick by the Raiders in 2022, Farrell is a disciplined run-stopper with pass-rushing chops as well, though apparently didn't show enough for Kansas City to keep him on the roster.
After a series of acquisitions following the NFL's roster cutdown deadline, the Chiefs had to find areas to trim the final roster down. Derrick Nnadi, Tershawn Wharton, and Mike Pennel will handle the bulk of the snaps inside with Chris Jones rotating at various positions in the trenches.
There was no expectation that Farrell would become a critical component of the defense. However, it's still surprising to see him waived given the praise he received for his work in training camp and the preseason. He'll likely get another opportunity quickly. His release had more to do with the math of the roster than his play itself.
The Chiefs take on the Baltimore Ravens in an AFC Championship rematch on Thursday in Week 1 with their eyes set on a three-peat. Farrell won't be part of it, though he's a talented player with a bright future nonetheless.
