The Kansas City Chiefs have made another roster adjustment, filling a vacancy left after running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire was placed on the “reserve/non-football illness” list on September 2. In response, the Chiefs promoted interior defensive lineman Marlon Tuipulotu to the 53-man roster on September 3, continuing their emphasis on versatility and depth for their defensive line.
Tuipulotu joins Kansas City after originally signing to the practice squad, bringing with him a proven skill set from his time with the Philadelphia Eagles. Known for his ability to play multiple positions on the defensive front, Tuipulotu offers defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo a flexible and reliable rotational piece.
Tuipulotu’s versatility was highly regarded during his draft evaluation by NFL Network’s Lance Zierlein, who noted his ability to play both nose tackle and three-technique, despite being slightly undersized for an interior run stuffer. His upper-body power and effective use of hands have allowed him to carve out a role in the NFL, as he’s demonstrated during his tenure in Philadelphia. With the Chiefs’ release of Matt Dickerson and Neil Farrell Jr., Tuipulotu steps into a key role for the defending Super Bowl champions, likely serving as a rotational cog across various defensive line positions.
In another move, the Chiefs re-signed cornerback Eric Scott to the practice squad. Scott’s re-signing comes after the Chiefs briefly waived draft pick Nic Jones to claim him, before waiving Scott later that week. Both promising young corners now remain with the team for developmental purposes.
As the Chiefs continue to tweak their roster, another notable update emerged involving wide receiver Kadarius Toney. Toney, who was released by the Chiefs during the cutdown period, found himself being courted by the Seattle Seahawks on September 3. ESPN NFL insider Field Yates confirmed the visit, though no contract offer has been made at this time. Toney’s immense talent has never been in question, but his recurring injury issues have tempered expectations regarding his next destination.
As Kansas City prepares for the 2024 season, the addition of Tuipulotu adds necessary depth and versatility to their defensive line, bolstering a unit that’s crucial to their defensive success. Meanwhile, the ongoing Toney situation remains one to monitor, as a team like Seattle might decide to roll the dice on the former first-round pick in hopes of harnessing his potential.
