In a move that has Kansas City Chiefs fans buzzing with excitement, the team is set to reunite with one of their most promising undrafted free agents (UDFA) from the offseason, offensive tackle Esa Pole. After a heart-wrenching decision during the 53-man roster cuts in early September, the Chiefs are now poised to bring back the preseason standout to their practice squad, pulling off what can only be described as a strategic steal in the NFL roster game.
A Risky Cut and a Jets Hijack
Back in September, Chiefs general manager Brett Veach faced a tough call. Despite Esa Pole’s impressive preseason performance, the team waived the young offensive tackle during the final roster cuts, hoping to sneak him onto their practice squad. It was a calculated risk, but one that didn’t pay off immediately. The New York Jets swooped in, claiming Pole off the waiver wire and dashing Kansas City’s hopes of retaining the talented rookie. For Chiefs fans, it felt like a rare gem had slipped through their fingers.
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Fast forward to late October, and the tides have turned in Kansas City’s favor. On Thursday, October 23, the Jets released Pole from their 53-man roster. By Friday, October 24, the rookie officially cleared waivers, becoming an unrestricted free agent and opening the door for a potential return to the Chiefs. According to a source with direct knowledge of the situation, as reported by A to Z Sports, Pole is flying into Kansas City on Friday evening. If all goes according to plan, he will officially sign to the Chiefs’ practice squad on Saturday, filling an open spot left by the promotion of cornerback Kevin Knowles to the active roster.
Perfect Timing for a Thin Offensive Line
Pole’s return couldn’t come at a better time for the Chiefs, who are grappling with a depleted offensive tackle group. The team’s depth at the position has been tested in recent weeks. Josh Simmons remains absent due to personal reasons, leaving Jaylon Moore to step up at left tackle. Meanwhile, Jawaan Taylor suffered a shoulder injury late in the Chiefs’ Week 7 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. Adding to the challenges, Ethan Driskell is sidelined on the non-football injury list following appendix surgery this offseason. As a result, the Chiefs have been forced to rely on backups like Wanya Morris and Chu Godrick to hold the line.
With the offensive tackle position stretched thin, Pole’s return is a major coup for Kansas City. The rookie’s preseason performance with the Chiefs showcased his potential as a reliable depth piece. In three preseason games, Pole played 46 offensive snaps and didn’t allow a single pressure, demonstrating his ability to protect the quarterback and hold his own against NFL competition. His standout play earned him praise and made him a fan favorite during the summer, which only heightened the disappointment when he was claimed by the Jets.
A Promising Talent Ready to Contribute
Esa Pole, a former Washington State Cougar, brings a blend of athleticism and raw potential to the Chiefs’ offensive line. While he was a healthy scratch each week during his brief stint with the Jets, his preseason tape with Kansas City tells a different story. Pole’s ability to stonewall defenders and maintain clean pockets in the preseason suggests he could be a valuable asset as the Chiefs navigate their current depth issues.
The mutual interest in a reunion speaks volumes about Pole’s fit with the Chiefs’ system and the team’s belief in his upside. With Kansas City’s offensive line needing reinforcement, Pole has a golden opportunity to pick up where he left off and prove he belongs in the NFL. His return to the practice squad could be the first step toward earning a more prominent role, especially if injuries continue to plague the Chiefs’ tackle group.
A Steal Worth Celebrating
The Chiefs’ ability to re-acquire Esa Pole is nothing short of a masterstroke. After losing him to the Jets on cut day, the team has now capitalized on an unexpected opportunity to bring back a player they clearly value. For a franchise known for its savvy roster moves, this feels like a classic Brett Veach maneuver—turning a tough loss into a triumphant reunion.
As Pole prepares to rejoin the Chiefs, fans can’t help but feel optimistic about what’s to come. The undrafted rookie has already shown he can compete at the professional level, and his return provides much-needed depth and potential to an offensive line in dire need of both. With the Chiefs eyeing another deep playoff run, Pole’s addition to the practice squad could prove to be a pivotal move in their quest for a third straight Super Bowl title.
Mission accomplished, Kansas City. The coveted UDFA talent is back where he belongs.