Chiefs quietly make flurry of roster moves immediately after 2025 NFL Draft

Brett Veach and his staff capped months (and years, really) of work with their seventh and final selection in the 2025 NFL Draft at No. 228 overall when they chose Brashard Smith, a running back out of SMU. It was the cherry on top of a draft class intent on laying a new defensive foundation while also netting a potential blue-chip left tackle in Josh Simmons.

But just in case you thought the work was done—or at least paused—for Veach and Co., the truth is that the frenzy really begins after Mr. Irrelevant is announced. That’s when teams can begin officially signing undrafted free agents to contracts to round out the offseason 90-man rosters.

Some new faces will earn major signing bonuses, putting them in a better financial position than if they were actually drafted. Other prospects will earn tryout opportunities with the hopes of parlaying that into a stronger opportunity to make the team with a contract offer.

The Chiefs have had a lot of luck in recent years with undrafted free agents. Last season, fullback Carson Steele surprised everyone and made the active roster out of training camp. In free agency, the Chiefs just watched the Carolina Panthers steal Turk Wharton away for big money after enjoying the fruits of finding him at Missouri S&T.

Who will be the big addition this year? Per Over the Cap, the Chiefs are likely to only sign 7 undrafted rookies this season due to the size of the active roster already. That said, there are always cuts made after a draft, so if Veach likes what he sees on the open market with the influx of first-year players, we might see a few more than that. Also watch out for rookie mini-camp invites.

Here are the Chiefs’ undrafted free agent signings

Elijhah Badger, WR, Florida

Had 39 catches for 806 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns. Led the Gators in receiving this season. Labeled as draftable by some NFL analysts.

Jake Briningstool, TE, Clemson

A legend at the tight end position at Clemson, Briningstone left as the school’s all-time leader in catches (127) and second in yards (1,380) and touchdowns (17) at the position.

Jacobe Covington, CB, USC

Chiefs add another USC product (see Eddie Czaplicki) to the UDFA list with a lengthy defensive back. Good special teams experience could serve him well trying to turn heads on multiple fronts.

Eddie Czaplicki, P, USC

Won the Ray Guy award as the nation’s best punter for USC last season. Could be some interesting competition for Matt Araiza going into camp.

Mac Dalena, WR/returner, Fresno State

Smaller returner/receiver at 5’10, 180 lbs. who ran an impressive 4.36-second time in the 40 and had elite times in the shuttle as well. Had 64 catches for 1,065 yards last season. Joins Nikko Remigio as returners from Fresno State.

Brandon George, LB, Pittsburgh

George put on an incredible showing at his pro day with a 4.60 second time in the 40-yard dash and a 42.5-inch vertical, which would have been first at the NFL Combine among linebackers. Played six years at Pitt and had 80 tackles and 2 sacks a year ago.

Kevin Hester, Jr., DT, UNC (minicamp invite)

Robert Jones III, CB, Howard (minicamp invite)

The Vikings have also extended an invite to Jones to join their rookie camp, which shows the Howard product was on the board for multiple teams. Ran a 4.45 second time in the 40-yard dash at his pro day.

Jimmy Holiday, WR, Louisiana Tech (minicamp invite)

Served as a sort of jack-of-all-trades after transferring from Western Kentucky. Had 48 carries for 182 yards and 4 touchdowns, yet also caught 36 passes for 476 yards and 2 scores. Also invited to Giants rookie camp.

Glendon Miller, DB, Maryland

Very lengthy defensive back at 6’3″ who had an impressive pro day. Comes with experience at strong safety, free safety, box corner. Might even be able to transition outside. Versatility should help him stick.

Esa Pole, OT, Washington State

Experienced tackle with pro-level quickness who stands 6’5″, 320 lbs. Didn’t allow a single sack on pass-protection reps in 2024. Took an official pre-draft visit with the Chiefs.

Chuck Smith IV, DL, Villanova (minicamp invite)

The Chiefs invite Chuck Smith IV to minicamp, giving them another dip into the Villanova pass-rushing pool after drafting Tanoh Kpassagnon years ago. Transferred from Wofford to Villanova.