Carson Steele’s Chiefs roster odds on display as preseason ends
UCLA alum Carson Steele entered training camp knowing the Chiefs would be weighing their 53-man roster options, and he remained in the middle of the debate even after finishing high in rushing yards among Chiefs rookies last season. The Chiefs’ preseason finale was a reminder that a spot on the active roster isn’t guaranteed, even for a rookie who showed durability and versatility.
Two different projections highlight the split in opinion about Steele’s future with Kansas City. One outlook envisions him surviving final cuts, thanks to his potential as a fullback who can contribute in the run game and on special teams, giving the Chiefs a useful option in a creative offense under coach Andy Reid. The other projection suggests the Chiefs could keep building the backfield depth through trades or waivers and decide Steele should be among the players who don’t make the 53-man squad.
Why Steele is viewed as valuable to the Chiefs
– The Chiefs have long valued the fullback position in Reid’s West Coast-influenced system. A versatile fullback who can block, snag a few carries, and contribute on special teams fits a profile Reid often relies on.
– Steele’s ability to fit that role is cited as a reason he could stay on the roster even as the team finalizes its depth chart. He also provides depth in the backfield during a period when injuries have impacted Kansas City’s running backs.
What the numbers say
– In his rookie season, Steele started three games due to injuries in the backfield but did not cement himself as a primary offensive piece.
– He averaged 3.3 yards per carry as a rookie, a figure that may prompt teams to value his versatility over a pure rushing role.
– For context from his college days, Steele played one season at UCLA in 2023, scoring eight touchdowns and accumulating more than 1,000 yards from scrimmage.
Outlook
– The final roster decisions will hinge on how the Chiefs value Steele as a hybrid option who can contribute immediately on special teams and as a blocker, versus giving more opportunities to other backs via trades or waivers.
– With backfield injuries still a factor, there is a realistic path for Steele to earn a spot if he continues to show special-teams value and blocking chops, while a cut remains a credible outcome if the team decides to chase additional backfield upgrades.
Summary
– The roster battle for Carson Steele remains ongoing after a season where he ranked among the Chiefs’ top rookie contributors in rushing yards. Projections differ on whether his unique skill set as a potential fullback and special-teammate will keep him on the roster, or if Kansas City will pursue greater depth elsewhere.
What this means for fans and readers
– Steele’s case is a reminder of how NFL rosters are built on more than raw ball-carrier stats. In a Reid-led system, the ability to contribute on multiple phases can be the deciding factor in tight decisions.
– Fans should watch the final cut announcements and any late-summer moves that could reshape the Chiefs’ backfield balance.
Additional notes
– If Steele lands on the roster, expect him to contribute as a relief blocker and contributor on special teams, with potential early involvement in the running game as Brashard Smith adjusts to NFL speed.
– If he doesn’t make the team, his versatility could make him a candidate for a practice squad or another team’s depth-chart opportunity, given his past production and athletic upside.
Potential headline ideas
– Steele Eyes Roster Spot: Chiefs Weigh Fullback Value Against Backfield Depth
– Roster Watch: Carson Steele’s Path to the Chiefs’ 53-Man Squad
– Versatility vs. Depth: The Debate Over Carson Steele’s Future in Kansas City
Note: The piece focuses on the ongoing 53-man roster decisions, Steele’s dual-threat value, and the Chiefs’ current roster-building approach.
Summary bullets
– Steele finished with strong rookie-year usage but faces a tight 53-man competition.
– Projections split on whether his fullback versatility keeps him on the roster or if the Chiefs pursue other running back options.
– His college and pro-season production, plus the Chiefs’ injury context, shape the path forward.