3 Kansas City Chiefs in Danger of Getting Cut After 2025 Minicamp
Kansas City, MO – As the Kansas City Chiefs wrap up their 2025 minicamp, tough roster decisions are looming. With a deep, talent-rich squad eyeing a third straight Super Bowl appearance, competition is fierce — and not every veteran or prospect will make the cut. Based on performances, depth chart movement, and coaching comments, here are three Chiefs players in danger of being cut before the regular season.
1. Clyde Edwards-Helaire – Running Back
A former first-round pick in 2020, Clyde Edwards-Helaire has struggled to live up to expectations. With Isiah Pacheco solidifying his role as RB1 and offseason addition Keaontay Ingram impressing in camp, CEH’s role is rapidly diminishing.
Despite a few flashes during 2024, Edwards-Helaire continues to battle injuries and inconsistency. His cap hit, combined with declining usage, makes him a likely candidate for release unless he significantly outshines the competition in training camp.
Verdict: Needs a breakout preseason to stay on the roster.
2. Joshua Kaindoh – Defensive End
Once considered a developmental prospect with high upside, Joshua Kaindoh has yet to make a real impact since being drafted in 2021. With the Chiefs’ defensive front growing stronger — especially after adding another edge rusher in the 2025 draft — Kaindoh is running out of chances.
Kaindoh’s lack of production in both pass-rushing and run defense, coupled with the emergence of younger, more explosive players like BJ Thompson and rookie Zion Tupuola-Fetui, puts him firmly on the roster bubble.
Verdict: Needs a dominant training camp or may not survive final cuts.
3. Richie James – Wide Receiver / Return Specialist
While Richie James offered some special teams value last season, his role is now under threat. The Chiefs added speedster Xavier Worthy in the draft and veteran Marquez Valdes-Scantling continues to hold a key spot. James has seen limited action in minicamp reps and is being outshined by younger receivers such as Justyn Ross and Nikko Remigio.
With Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore also fighting for targets, James will need to prove his worth as both a reliable slot receiver and returner to stick around.
Verdict: Veteran experience may not be enough to save him in a deep WR room.
Final Thoughts
The Kansas City Chiefs are in the enviable position of having a highly competitive roster, but that also means hard cuts are coming. Veterans and former draft picks alike will need to elevate their game ahead of training camp and preseason to secure a place on the final 53-man roster.
For Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Joshua Kaindoh, and Richie James, the clock is ticking.
