Chiefs Reportedly Release Veteran Running Back

The Chiefs reportedly released RB La'Mical Perine on Friday, trimming down the backfield after signing a pair of impressive undrafted free agents in Emani Bailey and Carson Steele.

Perhaps the move has nothing to do with the rookies, though the Chiefs do have rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit playing running back as well.

Perine appeared in three games last season, rushing for 77 yards on 22 total carries while adding three receptions for another 33 yards. He began his career with the Jets before joining Kansas City.

Chiefs News: KC Releases RB La'Mical Perine

The former fourth-round pick is only 26 years old and flashed in the preseason last year, so he should get another opportunity somewhere even if on a practice squad like he was for the majority of 2023.

This move leaves the Chiefs with Isiah Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire firmly on the roster. Rees-Zammit, Deneric Prince, Bailey, and Steele will likely battle it out in some capacity for that third spot. Jerick McKinnon remains an unsigned free agent, but there haven't been any reports indicating the Chiefs are interested in bringing him back.

I do believe this move has to say something about Kansas City's feelings on one of their other running backs, though I'm not sure which one. Rees-Zammit's ability to impact special teams may give him an edge, but he's never played the sport until now so there's an obvious learning curve.

Bailey and Steele both had storied college careers, while Brett Veach has said he's fond of Deneric Prince's game. The Chiefs have a lot of options suddenly, and Andy Reid typically carries at least three players in the backfield.

Pacheco missed time last year. Kansas City may be cautious with his snaps this season to ensure he's healthy for the playoffs, increasing the importance of depth. We'll see what happens in the coming weeks, though it sounds like one of these running backs is standing out in some way.

For now, Perine leaves as a Super Bowl champion in search of his next opportunity.

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