In a surprising move that sent ripples through the NFL, the Kansas City Chiefs made the difficult decision to part ways with running back Audric Estime on cut day, as reported by The Denver Gazette on August 24, 2025. The young player, a former fifth-round draft pick out of Notre Dame, was seen as a promising talent with the potential to bolster the Chiefs’ backfield. However, the harsh realities of roster cuts and strategic team decisions have led to an abrupt end to Estime’s tenure with the two-time defending Super Bowl champions.
A Promising Start
Audric Estime entered the NFL with high expectations. Drafted by the Chiefs in 2024, the 22-year-old running back showcased a blend of power, agility, and vision during his college career at Notre Dame. His bruising running style and ability to break tackles made him a fan favorite during the preseason, where he demonstrated flashes of potential in limited snaps. Notably, Estime carried the ball in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on August 16, 2025, showing his ability to grind out tough yards in critical moments.
Analysts and fans alike saw Estime as a complementary piece to the Chiefs’ high-octane offense, led by Patrick Mahomes and a dynamic receiving corps. His physicality was expected to provide balance to an already explosive passing game, offering a change-of-pace option behind starter Isiah Pacheco. However, despite the optimism surrounding his potential, Estime faced an uphill battle to secure a spot on Kansas City’s competitive roster.
The Harsh Reality of Cut Day
NFL cut day is a brutal rite of passage, where teams must trim their rosters to the league-mandated 53 players. For young players like Estime, it’s a make-or-break moment that can define the trajectory of their careers. The Chiefs, known for their meticulous roster management under general manager Brett Veach, faced tough choices as they finalized their lineup for the 2025 season.
According to sources, Estime’s release was driven by a combination of factors. The emergence of other running backs in camp, coupled with the team’s depth at the position, likely played a significant role. Veterans like Isiah Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire, along with the addition of undrafted free agents and other young prospects, created a crowded backfield. The Chiefs’ coaching staff, led by Andy Reid, prioritized versatility and special teams contributions, areas where Estime may have fallen short compared to his peers.
Additionally, Kansas City’s strategic focus on maintaining a championship-caliber roster meant prioritizing players who could contribute immediately. While Estime showed promise, his development as a rookie may not have aligned with the team’s short-term goals. The decision to waive him reflects the Chiefs’ confidence in their current depth and their willingness to take risks with young talent in pursuit of another Super Bowl run.
What’s Next for Estime?
For Audric Estime, being waived by the Chiefs is not necessarily the end of the road. The NFL is a league of second chances, and talented players often find new homes after being released. Estime’s youth, physical tools, and college pedigree make him an attractive option for other teams looking to bolster their running back depth. He could be claimed off waivers by another franchise or signed to a practice squad, where he would have the opportunity to continue developing his skills.
The Denver Broncos, who faced Estime in the preseason, could be a potential landing spot. With roster questions looming as they head into the 2025 season, the Broncos may see value in adding a player of Estime’s caliber to their backfield. Other teams in need of running back depth, such as the Dallas Cowboys, who have been linked to trade rumors involving running backs, could also take a chance on the former Notre Dame star.
A Broader Perspective
Estime’s release is a reminder of the cutthroat nature of the NFL, where even talented draft picks are not guaranteed a roster spot. For every success story, there are countless players whose dreams are derailed by the business side of the sport. The Chiefs’ decision to part ways with Estime underscores the delicate balance between potential and immediate impact, a calculus that every NFL team must navigate.
As the 2025 season approaches, Kansas City will move forward with their finalized roster, aiming to defend their title and cement their dynasty status. For Audric Estime, the journey continues elsewhere, with the hope that this setback is merely a detour on the path to a successful NFL career. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see where the talented running back lands next and whether he can turn this disappointment into an opportunity for redemption