There's a ton of excitement about the class of rookies the Kansas City Chiefs are bringing in for the 2025 season. KC not only landed a potential left tackle for years to come in Josh Simmons, but third-round pick Nohl Williams projects as an NFL-ready cornerback from the jump, and fourth-round receiver selection Jalen Royals adds major playmaking.
The Chiefs were also active after the draft finding possible gems among the rookie free agents, such as tight end Jake Briningstool.
However, this injection of youth creates a need for roster spots, and Kansas City opened up two this weekend by waiving B.J. Thompson and releasing Blake Lynch. On Sunday, head coach Andy Reid offered a message to Thompson, who's still working his way back from a seizure.
Reid offered some reassurance to Thompson by noting the Super Bowl champion is "making progress" while speaking to reporters. The Chiefs' HC admitted that Thompson is "not quite there yet," but expressed confidence the pass rusher's career isn't "over by any means."
Reid's comments here show why he is so beloved by his locker rooms and considered a player's coach. Even though this move distances Thompson from his teammates, Reid is still trying to keep him motivated just like any other member of the roster.
This certainly is another bump in the road for Thompson's career, but the priority remains his long-term health and safety. He'll also revert to the team's non-football illness list assuming he's not claimed on waivers, so his time as a Chief isn't likely over despite being waived to open up roster space.
Thompson is only two years removed from being a fifth-round pick as well, which means he should have plenty NFL games left in front of him still as long as he keeps making strides in his recovery.