Chiefs release veteran DB ahead of Week 2 matchup vs. Colts on 'SNF'

The Kansas City Chiefs have released veteran defensive back Tanner McCalister in anticipation of their Week 2 game against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday Night Football, according to NFL insider Aaron Wilson. McCalister, who started his professional career as an undrafted free agent with the Cleveland Browns in 2023, joined the Chiefs in February following appearances with the Jets and Broncos the prior season.

The former Ohio State Buckeye is now expected to become a free agent and likely secure employment with other teams as defensive backs across the NFL face roster challenges due to injuries. Wilson shared the news of McCalister's release on September 15 via the insider's official Twitter account. Chiefs general manager Brett Veach is anticipated to closely monitor the waiver wire and daily transaction reports, as he aims to optimize every position on the roster throughout the 2026 NFL regular season.