Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs made a strategic move to strengthen their defense on March 22, 2025, signing former Green Bay Packers cornerback Robert Rochell to a one-year deal. The acquisition, first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, adds depth and versatility to a Chiefs secondary already eyeing another deep playoff run in the upcoming season.
Rochell, a 26-year-old former fourth-round pick by the Los Angeles Rams in the 2021 NFL Draft, brings a mix of experience and untapped potential to Kansas City. Originally drafted out of Central Arkansas, he started five games as a rookie with the Rams, contributing an interception, a fumble recovery, and four pass defenses across 28 appearances over two seasons. His early promise was highlighted by a Super Bowl ring in 2021, though his role diminished before the Rams released him in 2023.
Landing with the Packers later that year, Rochell shifted gears, carving out a niche primarily on special teams. Over two seasons in Green Bay, he appeared in 20 games, logging just one defensive snap but excelling in coverage and return units with 233 special teams snaps. His performance earned mixed reviews—a 70.1 Pro Football Focus grade in 2023 followed by a dip to 43.9 in 2024—but his athleticism and pedigree kept him on NFL radars.
The Chiefs, fresh off another AFC Championship campaign, see Rochell as a low-risk, high-reward addition. With head coach Andy Reid and special teams coordinator Dave Toub at the helm, Kansas City likely envisions him competing for a roster spot as a gunner and depth corner. The move comes on the heels of their earlier signing of veteran cornerback Kristian Fulton, signaling a clear intent to bolster the secondary behind All-Pro Trent McDuffie and rising stars like Jaylen Watson.
Fans on X are already buzzing about the pickup. “Chiefs snagging Rochell is sneaky smart—special teams ace with CB upside,” one user posted, while another quipped, “From Packers cheese to Chiefs Kingdom, let’s see if he can lock down more than punt returns.” Meanwhile, Packers supporters lamented the loss of depth, with one noting, “Third CB gone this offseason—our secondary’s getting thin.”
Rochell’s path to the Chiefs roster isn’t guaranteed—he’ll need to shine in OTAs, minicamp, and training camp to secure his spot. But for a team known for turning overlooked talent into contributors, this signing fits the blueprint. As Kansas City reloads for another title chase, Robert Rochell could be the latest diamond in the rough to shine in Chiefs red.
