The Kansas City Chiefs made a notable roster adjustment just before their mandatory minicamp, releasing defensive tackle Siaki Ika to free up a spot for tight end Kevin Foelsch.
This move at the onset of minicamp, which is scheduled for June 17, underscores how quickly NFL rosters can shift in the lead-up to training camps.
Ika, 24, had joined the Chiefs‘ practice squad in December, signing a reserve/future contract in February.
Although he never took a snap in a regular season game for Kansas City, he had some NFL experience with the Cleveland Browns in 2023-appearing in four contests-before bouncing around with the Eagles and then the Chiefs.
Before the NFL, Ika‘s collegiate achievements showed promise: he earned All-Big 12 honors twice and claimed a CFP national title at LSU in 2020. Still, the transition from college standout to reliable pro remains a steep climb, and Kansas City ultimately decided to move on.
Midway through the offseason program, the Chiefs‘ defense remains anchored by Chris Jones, who not only made over 10 sacks last season but is also regarded as one of the NFL’s most dominant interior linemen.
Jones is entering his tenth season with Kansas City, and his presence at voluntary OTAs-despite their optional nature-was labeled “phenomenal” by defensive line coach Joe Cullen
Strong defensive leadership continues to shine
Chris Jones isn’t just contributing on the field. His contract restructuring earlier this year not only signalled his commitment to the franchise but also helped free up significant salary cap space-an estimated $11.25 million from his reshaped deal.
That flexibility allowed the Chiefs to make key additions, including re-signing linebacker Nick Bolton, landing cornerback Kristian Fulton, and bringing in veteran defensive lineman Jerry Tillery.
His influence extends beyond stats-Jones‘s participation in voluntary workouts is being lauded as critical for guiding younger players, further cementing his legacy not just as a performer, but as a mentor.
Meanwhile, Ika must reassess his next steps. His release reflects the steep competition within the Chiefs organization and the league at large.
Despite his decorated college career, highlighted by 70 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and five sacks, he was unable to carve out a role in Kansas City’s defensive rotation.
Since being a third-round pick by Cleveland in 2023, Ika has been through quick stints with multiple teams. According to one NFL journo, “Ika’s release highlights how competitive it is to stay on a roster like the Chiefs’.
For Ika, the turf wars of the NFL continue, and his next opportunity could come soon on another team’s practice squad or active roster.
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