The Kansas City Chiefs made one surprising move when nailing down the final 53-man roster, parting ways with veteran defender Mike Pennel. Having the veteran option along the defensive line appeared to lock Pennel into place. However, the Chiefs are never afraid to pivot, whether it is moving away from Tyreek Hill, trading L'Jarius Sneed, or cutting depth players. Kansas City isn't afraid to make eye-catching moves.
Cutting Pennel isn't exactly the type of blockbuster that typically inspires a huge reaction. Still, Pennel took offense to the move, declaring war on the franchise. The veteran posted an iconic quote from Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight, where Heath Ledger's Joker burns a mountain of money. All while insisting that it isn't about the money but about sending a "message" one that Pennel hijacked after his release.
It is a bit sad to see such an experienced player take shots at the league's prestige organization. Pennel needs to understand the business and be able to take a step back and see the bigger picture. However, the flip side of this is the free entertainment it has provided in an endless sea of ex-players thinking organizations after getting cut.
Veteran DT Mike Pennel is signing with the #Bengals, per source. Practice squad initially with active roster capabilities.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 1, 2025
Mike Pennel's Sad Attempt for Revenge over the Chiefs Continues
Just in case you doubted Pennel's intentions to back up his words, the defender has signed, according to Jeremy Fowler. The veteran opted to sign with the Bengals' practice squad, the most notable Chiefs rival in the conference. Only the Bengals and Joe Burrow have managed to beat Patrick Mahomes and KC in a game that actually mattered.
This invited the infamous "Burrowhead" comment that has inspired the Chiefs to beat Cincy every chance since. Still, Pennel is backing up his words, signing a practice squad deal with a team that is going to be expected to be a roadblock by pundits searching for a team capable of upsetting the dynastic franchise.
With this in mind, Pennel's sad attempt to get back at the franchise has resulted in a poor decision. You've given up signing on an active roster despite your accomplishments and tenure. What is ironic about this is the fact Pennel pitched a social media fit after being cut by the Chiefs, only to turn around and be unable to land on another active roster.
The irony isn't lost on Chiefs fans who no longer fear a Bengals team that has lost key defenders and cannot slow down any offense with capable talent. Barring a surprise development, the Bengals aren't going to get their chance at another playoff shot at the Chiefs. Denying Pennel the revenge he so obviously craves, even if he managed to make the active roster.
For the Chiefs, it is a silly story that is only noteworthy based on the boredom of fans waiting for the regular season. Pennel's sad attempt at revenge isn't going to happen with the Chiefs being far too talented to worry about the Bengals or who happens to be on the practice squad.