JUST IN: Chiefs Re-Sign their 28-years old top key man
On May 20, the Kansas City Chiefs made some roster adjustments by re-signing veteran defensive tackle Matt Dickerson. The news was first reported by A-to-Z Sports Kansas City reporter Charles Goldman and later confirmed by Chiefs Digest’s Matt Derrick and others.
Dickerson, a staff favorite, was released from the 90-man roster on May 13 to make room for linebacker and special teamer Cole Christiansen, who also rejoined the team. The Chiefs then released running back La’Mical Perine on May 17, allowing Dickerson to return.
Dickerson, who entered the NFL in 2018, has played for six seasons, standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 292 pounds. He has accumulated 42 total tackles, three tackles for loss, and three QB hits but is still seeking his first NFL sack.
Last year, after several stints with the Chiefs, Dickerson secured a role in Steve Spagnuolo’s rotation. Pro Football Focus recorded 190 defensive snaps for him in 2023, with 41 coming in Week 1 against the Detroit Lions.
Known for his versatility, Dickerson earned a solid tackling grade of 74.1 for the season, with no missed tackles and six key defensive stops. However, his run defense and pass-rushing grades were lower, at 45.5 and 53.9, respectively.
Chiefs Are Running It Back on the Defensive Front
The Chiefs’ front office has executed a clear offseason strategy: retaining last year’s defensive linemen. They’ve already brought back veterans Chris Jones, Derrick Nnadi, Mike Pennel, and Tershawn Wharton, along with Matt Dickerson, to bolster the interior. Additionally, they have Mike Danna and Malik Herring at defensive end.
Considering those still under contract — George Karlaftis, Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Charles Omenihu, BJ Thompson, Neil Farrell, Truman Jones, and Isaiah Buggs — it’s evident that the Chiefs are committed to maintaining continuity on the defensive front.
Remarkably, the sole addition to the entire defensive line is priority undrafted free agent Fabien Lovett Sr. This emphasis on continuity signals the Chiefs’ confidence in their existing defensive line talent.
‘Phase 3’ of Chiefs OTAs Begins on May 20 With WR Rashee Rice in Attendance
The Kansas City Chiefs commenced “phase three” of Organized Team Activities on Monday, May 20. According to Arrowhead Pride reporter Pete Sweeney, credentialed media will have access to practice and interviews with coaches and players starting on Wednesday, May 22, and then again on Thursday, May 30, and Thursday, June 6.
The notable development from day one was wide receiver Rashee Rice’s attendance, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Schefter also mentioned that Rice will be participating in all activities, despite not having received a suspension yet. A-to-Z Sports reacted by highlighting that suspended players can still take part in offseason activities.
Rice’s presence comes amidst a turbulent offseason for the Chiefs off the field. Kicker Harrison Butker stirred controversy with a college commencement speech, prompting some fans to petition for his release. Additionally, offensive linemen Wanya Morris and Chukwuebuka Godrick were arrested on May 17 for possession of marijuana.
Given these incidents, the Kansas City organization likely hopes for a quieter preseason period. OTAs will run until Tuesday, June 11, marking the official start of mandatory minicamp.