Chiefs Make Surprise Trade Just Before Roster Cutdown Day

The Chiefs pulled off an unexpected trade on the eve of roster cutdown day, acquiring 2022 third-round linebacker Cam Thomas from the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for a seventh-round pick.

Thomas played in 32 games over two seasons with the Cardinals, serving as both an edge rusher and special teams contributor. He was in for over 30% of the snaps on both defense and special teams for Arizona in 2023,

This transaction has Brett Veach's fingerprints all over it, sending late-round draft capital for a former high pick. With Kansas City needing to trim its roster to 53 players by Tuesday's deadline, Thomas' arrival means an extra current player will be let go.

Chiefs News: KC Trades for Cardinals LB Cam Thomas

Considering that Charles Omenihu is still rehabbing from injury and 2023 first-rounder Felix Anudike-Uzomah hasn't taken a big step forward yet, bringing in some additional help on the defensive line makes sense.

The Chiefs face a gauntlet of difficult offenses early in the season. Taking a chance on a player who had 11.5 sacks during his final year at San Diego State for the low cost of a seventh-round selection is good business. With 20.5 tackles for loss that season, Thomas has the motor and production profile to make an impact.

He's shown quick hands and versatility when given the opportunity. Chris Jones, George Karlaftis, and Mike Danna are all firmly established as the top three rushers, but don't be surprised if you see Thomas get on the field situationally early in the campaign.

No player available for such a meager cost comes without flaws. Thomas was deemed expendable by an inferior team in the Cardinals, though this certainly wouldn't be the first time that Veach turned another team's metaphorical trash into treasure.

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