qq. CHIEFS BRING BACK PRESEASON HERO JUST IN TIME FOR COMMANDERS SHOWDOWN! Injuries piling up? No problem! This familiar face is BACK to add serious depth. Arrowhead about to ERUPT—who’s ready?!
Kansas City, MO – October 28, 2025
Just two days before their Monday Night Football matchup against the Washington Commanders, the Kansas City Chiefs have brought back a familiar name —offensive tackle Esa Pole, the preseason standout who quickly became a fan favorite during training camp.
The move comes at a critical time for Kansas City. With Josh Simmonsstill away handling a family matter in California and Trey Smith battling a back injury, head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach knew they needed reinforcements in the trenches.Jawaan Taylor also remains questionable after sustaining knee and shoulder injuries during the Chiefs’ 31-0 win over the Raiders last week.
Pole, who initially joined the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in May, impressed coaches with his raw strength and composure against top-tier defensive linemen during the preseason. Though he narrowly missed the 53-man roster — reportedly as “the 54th man” — he was immediately claimed by theNew York Jets after final cuts.
After spending seven weeks on the Jets’ inactive list, the 6-foot-5 tackle was released on October 24, clearing waivers within 24 hours. The Chiefs wasted no time bringing him home.
According to Chiefs Digest’s Matt Derrick, Pole flew to Kansas City late Friday night, passed his physical Saturday morning, and officially signed to the practice squad, where he’ll wearNo. 70. Team insiders describe the reunion as something that was always meant to happen.
“When the Chiefs released Pole during roster cuts, they told him he was the 54th man and that they really wanted him back on the practice squad,” reportedCharles Goldman of AtoZ Sports. “The Jets claimed him then — but now Kansas City gets another chance.”
The Chiefs’ offensive line has endured multiple injuries through the first seven weeks, making Pole’s familiarity withAndy Reid’s system and Patrick Mahomes’ cadence a huge plus. Though he hasn’t yet appeared in a regular-season game, his athleticism and grasp of the playbook could earn him a promotion to the active roster if injuries persist.
Pole, a former Washington State Cougar, adds valuable insurance ahead of Monday’s primetime showdown. And for the Chiefs — a team defined by preparation and depth — bringing back a player who already knows the system might be the smartest move of Week 8.
The Chiefs’ focus remains clear: protect Mahomes, maintain momentum, and extend their win streak to three.
