The Kansas City Chiefs wasted no time beefing up their roster depth this week, officially announcing their initial 16-man practice squad for the 2026 season. The names dropped in two waves, Monday and Tuesday, and it is clear the Chiefs are stashing some serious talent that could be difference-makers later on.
Speed Demon From The Emerald City Joins The Offense
Man, the Chiefs made some smart moves on offense. First up, we gotta talk about our guy Omari Evans. This undrafted rookie from the University of Washington absolutely torched training camp, flashing the kind of crazy 4.28-second 40-yard dash speed he showed at his Pro Day. No wonder he stood out. He’s joined by wideout Andrew Armstrong, who was apparently so close to the active roster, his family ties probably sealed the deal for him to choose KC over any other team. In the backfield, they snagged three running backs: Jaydn Ott, an undrafted rookie who only saw nine offensive snaps in the first preseason game, catching two passes for 40 yards. Feels like they were stashing him already. Then there is Nate Carter, a second-year back who actually put up 60 yards on nine carries for the Atlanta Falcons last season. And hey, a fullback! Ben VanSumeren, a fourth-year guy who started out as a linebacker for the Eagles, is back to pave some holes. On the O-line, undrafted rookie Pete Nygra from Louisville logged 182 preseason snaps all over the interior, playing left guard, center, and right guard. Third-year tackle Ethan Driskell also made the cut, lining up at both right and left tackle in the preseason. He did allow three pressures, but hey, 57 pass-blocking snaps are a grind.
Defensive Depth With Veteran Savvy
On defense, the Chiefs are building a wall. They brought in three defensive linemen, including Cole Brevard, an undrafted rookie from the University of Texas. This dude was the heaviest player on their offseason roster and will be a reserve nose tackle, waiting for his shot behind Khyiris Tonga and Bryson Eason. It is a tough spot to earn. The biggest name here has to be Emmanuel Ogbah. He is the oldest player on this practice squad and didn’t quite make the active roster, but you know the Chiefs aren’t worried about someone else swiping him. He is a veteran who could absolutely contribute later in the season if they need him. Tyreke Smith, a second-year edge defender from Ohio State, also landed a spot after looking like a solid rotational guy in camp. Don’t be surprised if he is fighting for a top-five edge spot next preseason. And holding down the linebacker corps are two Chiefs veterans, Cole Christiansen and Cam Jones.
This initial 16-man squad is locked and loaded. Keep an eye on guys like Omari Evans for those potential call-ups. This is how you build a team that lasts, securing talent for now and the future.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Arrowhead Pride.
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