The Kansas City Chiefs shook up their roster on Saturday with a flurry of moves that signal both strategic recalibration and injury-related necessity as the regular season winds down. Among the most notable additions: running back Dameon Pierce, quarterback Chris Oladokun, and offensive tackle Chukwuebuka Godrick have all been signed to the active roster.
Let’s start with Pierce. The 25-year-old running back, originally a fourth-round pick by the Houston Texans in 2022, now finds himself with a fresh opportunity in Kansas City.
His time in Houston ended after a quiet 2025 campaign-just 10 carries for 26 yards over four games-but make no mistake, the Chiefs aren’t bringing him in to be a spectator. Pierce brings a physical, downhill running style that could complement Kansas City's current backfield rotation, especially with Elijah Mitchell being waived as part of the corresponding roster shuffle.
Mitchell’s departure clears the way for Pierce to potentially carve out a role, even if it’s a limited one to start. While Pierce didn’t light up the stat sheet this season, his rookie year showed flashes of promise, and Kansas City is known for maximizing under-the-radar talent. If he can pick up the system quickly, he may be more than just depth insurance.
On the offensive line, the Chiefs are making moves to patch up some injury concerns. Starting tackle Jawaan Taylor is heading to injured reserve, a tough blow for a unit that has been key to Patrick Mahomes’ protection all season.
To help fill the void, the Chiefs have signed Godrick and elevated Matt Waletzko from the practice squad. Godrick, still relatively raw, brings intriguing size and athleticism, while Waletzko offers versatility and familiarity with the system.
Expect the Chiefs to mix and match up front as they try to stabilize the line heading into a critical stretch.
Defensively, linebacker Leo Chenal is also headed to IR, which opens the door for Cole Christiansen to step up after being activated from the practice squad. Chenal has been a high-energy presence in the linebacker corps, so his absence will be felt, particularly in run defense and on special teams. Christiansen, meanwhile, has shown flashes in limited action and will now have a chance to prove he can handle more responsibility.
Finally, quarterback Chris Oladokun returns to the active roster, giving Kansas City added depth behind Mahomes. While Oladokun isn’t expected to see the field barring injury, his presence ensures the Chiefs have a full quarterback room as the postseason approaches.
Altogether, these moves reflect a team that’s managing injuries while also looking to solidify depth for the playoff push. With veterans sidelined and new faces stepping in, the Chiefs are betting on their ability to adapt-and if history’s any indication, they usually do.