Who is New Washington Commanders CB Kyu Blu Kelly?

The Washington Commanders claimed rookie Kyu Blu Kelly off waivers after cutting Danny Johnson.
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The Washington Commanders are adding to their secondary.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Commanders are claiming rookie cornerback Kyu Blu Kelly off waivers after cutting Danny Johnson.

Kelly was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round, 157th overall, of the 2023 NFL Draft. The son of former 11-year NFL-veteran cornerback Brian Kelly, the Stanford alum could give the Commanders some depth in the secondary in the final four games of the season.

Kyu Blu Kelly
Kyu Blu Kelly / Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

As a former track star, he possesses both the speed and athleticism to remain in step with receivers in coverage. While most proficient in man coverage, Kelly has the ability to play in some Cover 3, as well.

He is aggressive at the catch point but could use some improvement in his engagement when playing off-coverage. As such, he has the chance to provide the Commanders with another potentially-explosive playmaker within their secondary.

Kelly has been on a bit of a roller coaster in his first season in the NFL. He was drafted by the Ravens, but was cut at the end of training camp. A day later, the Seattle Seahawks claimed him off waivers and he played in five games with the team. However, the Seahawks cut Kelly on Nov. 11.

BREAKING: Commanders Cut CB Danny Johnson

Four days later, he found his third NFL home with the Green Bay Packers. Kelly made one appearance with the Packers on Thanksgiving Day and played in his first defensive snap. He played exclusively on special teams in Seattle.

Now, he'll have a chance to earn another opportunity with the Commanders.


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Jeremy Brener
JEREMY BRENER

Jeremy Brener is an editor, writer and social media manager for several On SI sites. His work has also been featured in 247 Sports and SB Nation as a writer and podcaster. Brener grew up in Houston, going to Astros, Rockets and Texans games as a kid and resides in Central Florida. He graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism minoring in Sport Business Management. Brener can be followed on Twitter @JeremyBrener. For more inquiries, please email jeremybrenerchs@gmail.com.