The Kansas City Chiefs' release of Mike Pennel came as a bit of a surprise. It is safe to say from the defender's recent social media posts that he isn't taking it well.
What exactly the defender means with his posts can be debated, but the overall message is clear. There are hard feelings towards the Chiefs, and the organization has motivated the lineman if he is given a chance to match up against the new rival in the 2025 season.
Mike Pennel via Instagram stories. pic.twitter.com/Coxo8GEUbK
— Chiefs Blitz (@ChiefsBlitz) August 28, 2025
Former Chiefs Defender Sends Strong Message after Surprise Release
Chiefs Blitz tweeted out Pennel's Instagram story post after the defender was released by the franchise. If the tone of the post is any indication, the veteran isn't taking it well. The post is an iconic scene fromThe Dark Knight where Heath Ledger's Joker has taken over Gotham, taking all of crime's most powerful figures' cash and setting it on fire. Uttering that "it's not about money" but sending a "message."
Anytime a player posts a Batman villain's monologue in response to a roster decision, it will raise some eyebrows. Still, it is easy to understand the frustration or surprise from the Super Bowl champ. It won't be the first time the veteran has hit the market.
After starting out in Green Bay, Pennel left the Packers and spent time with the Jets, Patriots, Chiefs, Bears, and Falcons. The last handful of seasons brought reunions with Chicago and Kansas City, setting up the most recent exit. One that has made headlines based on Pennel's reaction to the move.
Reading between the lines here, it is easy to see how Pennel might view the cut and the strong message he is sending in return. It is safe to assume the veteran defender isn't going to be a part of Kansas City's practice squad anytime soon.
For the Chiefs, it is sad to see a former player exit in this manner, but it still made sense for the organization to turn the page. There are younger pieces that can fill the role, and Kansas City's defense should still be one of the better units in the league.