In a stunning development that has sent ripples through the NFL, the Kansas City Chiefs have added a new weapon to their already formidable arsenal. Former Washington Commanders running back Michael Wiley has officially signed with the two-time defending Super Bowl champions, as announced by Chiefs senior team reporter Matt McMullen. “The Chiefs signed running back Michael Wiley prior to practice this morning,” McMullen tweeted. “Wiley, who spent last season on the Commanders’ practice squad, played his college ball at Arizona from 2019-23.”
The 24-year-old Houston native brings a fresh burst of energy to Kansas City’s backfield. A standout at the University of Arizona, Wiley honed his skills in the Pac-12 over an impressive five-year collegiate career with the Wildcats. His breakout moment came in 2022 during his junior season, when he powered through defenses for 771 yards and eight touchdowns, leading Arizona’s rushing attack. The COVID-19 pandemic granted Wiley an extra year of eligibility, allowing him to return for a fifth season in 2023. Though his role diminished slightly as teammates Jonah Coleman and D.J. Williams took on larger responsibilities, Wiley’s talent and versatility remained undeniable.
The Chiefs signed running back Michael Wiley prior to practice this morning.
Wiley, who spent last season on the Commanders’ practice squad, played his college ball at Arizona from 2019-23.
— Matt McMullen (@KCChiefs_Matt) August 12, 2025
After going undrafted in 2024, Wiley earned a spot with the Washington Commanders during training camp but was cut before the final 53-man roster was set. Undeterred, he joined the Commanders’ practice squad, biding his time despite injuries to key players like Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler. While he didn’t see game action in Washington, Wiley’s potential caught the eye of the Chiefs, who are now giving him a shot to shine on one of the NFL’s brightest stages.
Joining a Kansas City backfield that includes stars like Isaiah Pacheco, Elijah Mitchell, Kareem Hunt, Carson Steele, and rookies Brashard Smith and Elijah Young, Wiley faces a steep challenge to secure a spot on the Chiefs’ 53-man roster. With training camp already in full swing, the young running back will need to make an immediate impact to stand out in a crowded and talented group. However, his work ethic, explosive playmaking ability, and college pedigree suggest he’s ready to seize this opportunity in his second NFL season.
The timing of Wiley’s move adds an extra layer of intrigue, as the Commanders are set to face the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium in a highly anticipated Week 8 Monday Night Football showdown on October 27, 2025. Could this be a chance for Wiley to prove himself against his former team? Fans will be watching closely as the former Wildcat aims to carve out a role in Kansas City’s dynasty and help the Chiefs chase a historic third consecutive Super Bowl title.