KC Chiefs Waive Montrell Washington, Keondre Coburn to Clear Roster Space

Kansas City is parting ways with two players, including a 2023 draft pick, on Thursday.

The Kansas City Chiefs made a somewhat surprising decision when they sent a draft pick to the New York Jets in exchange for wide receiver Mecole Hardman, and now the team is clearing space for the veteran wideout. Hardman isn't the only player having a roster pathway paved for him, however, as defensive lineman Charles Omenihu is expected to soon come off the reserve/suspended list and join the 53-man roster.

Per a Thursday morning report by Matt Derrick of Chiefs Digest, Kansas City has decided which two players will be coming off the roster in corresponding moves. Wide receiver Montrell Washington and defensive tackle Keondre Coburn have reportedly been waived by the team.

Chiefs have waived WR Montrell Washington and DT Keondre Coburn. That clears way for the return of Mecole Hardman and the eventual return of Charles Omenihu.

— Matt Derrick (@mattderrick) October 19, 2023

Chiefs have waived WR Montrell Washington and DT Keondre Coburn. That clears way for the return of Mecole Hardman and the eventual return of Charles Omenihu.

Washington's departure shouldn't be a shock, especially given that he was more of a return specialist than a receiving option during his time on the team. The second-year man was elevated to the active roster once Richie James went on the injured reserve list, and he ended up returning eight punts for 61 yards in Weeks 3-6. Washington's brief stint also saw him bring back one kickoff for 20 yards in the process. The 2022 fifth-round pick by the Denver Broncos wasn't necessarily needed as a returner anymore now that Hardman is joining the team, resulting in the Thursday transaction. 

Coburn being waived is a more notable move due to the Chiefs' recent investment in him. The Texas product was selected by Kansas City in this year's NFL Draft, being picked in the sixth round at No. 194 overall. While the rookie played just nine defensive snaps in Week 1 against the Detroit Lions and has been a healthy scratch ever since, the organization deciding to roll the dice on the waiver wire is interesting.

Of course, it's always possible that one or both of Washington and Coburn is brought back on a practice squad basis. Special teams coordinator Dave Toub and defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo both mentioned that they hope to get each of their players back via that route. With that said, there may have been other candidates (defensive tackle Matt Dickerson, to name one) for a waive/release scenario. The Chiefs needed to clear spots on the 53-man roster for two veterans, though, and will now move forward with Hardman and, eventually, Omenihu ready to roll.

Read More: Chris Jones Shares Reasons for His Success Along Chiefs’ Defensive Line