The Kansas City Chiefs officially saw the contracts of six players expire on January 12, sending them into 2026 NFL free agency — a group that includes popular running back Carson Steele.

According to an NFL transaction notice shared by A-to-Z Sports Kansas City reporter Charles Goldman, seven practice-squad contracts initially expired. Tight end Tre Watson later re-signed on a reserve/future deal, leaving six players officially unattached.

Chiefs Players Entering Free Agency

As of January 12, the following players are free agents:

• Carson Steele (RB)

• Nick Broeker (G)

• Jason Brownlee (WR)

• Clyde Edwards-Helaire (RB)

• Malik Herring (DE)

• Marlon Tuipulotu (DT)

None have agreed to re-sign with Kansas City so far, making their return uncertain.

Carson Steele: From Preseason Star to Uncertain Future

Steele’s journey with the Chiefs has been anything but ordinary.

Signed as an undrafted rookie in 2024, Steele quickly became a fan favorite during training camp and the preseason. He showcased reliable hands as a receiver and an aggressive running style, averaging 7.9 yards per carry, totaling 87 rushing yards and two touchdowns across three preseason games.

That performance earned him a spot on the 53-man roster — a rare achievement for a UDFA.

When starter Isiah Pacheco went down with injury, Steele even received a brief starting opportunity. However, struggles in that role led the Chiefs to turn to veteran Kareem Hunt, and Steele eventually slid back into a reserve role.

He spent the 2025 season on the practice squad, and now, with his contract expired, Steele may be looking for a fresh start elsewhere.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire Enters Free Agency Again

The most recognizable name on the list is Clyde Edwards-Helaire, whose career arc contrasts sharply with Steele’s.

A former first-round pick, Edwards-Helaire was once viewed as the long-term answer in the Chiefs’ backfield alongside Patrick Mahomes. After a promising rookie season, injuries, competition, and off-field challenges derailed his trajectory.

The Chiefs previously moved on from CEH in 2024, when he joined the New Orleans Saints. He later returned to Kansas City amid running-back injuries, but that reunion now appears to be over.

Malik Herring and the Rest of the Departures

Defensive end Malik Herring also stands out. He spent his entire NFL career with Kansas City, bouncing between the practice squad and active roster since 2022. Despite limited on-field production — just 1.5 career sacks — Herring earned two Super Bowl rings during his tenure.

Meanwhile:

• Marlon Tuipulotu appeared in five combined games over the past two seasons after starting his career with the Eagles.

• Jason Brownlee joined Kansas City after time with the Jets and saw action in six games.

• Nick Broeker joined the Chiefs late in 2025 and remains largely unknown at the NFL level.

What Comes Next for Kansas City?

While reserve/future deals could still materialize, the Chiefs appear ready to reset the back end of their roster as they prepare for another Super Bowl push.

For players like Steele and Edwards-Helaire, free agency represents either a second chance — or a final audition.