Three position groups the Chiefs must look to improve during 53-man roster cuts

The Kansas City Chiefs have already sought to improve their roster during 53-man roster cuts, reuniting with veteran WR JuJu Smith-Schuster .

Teams are finalizing their 53-man rosters, assembling their 16-man practice squads, and getting ready for Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season after the conclusion of the preseason. The Chiefs could seek to improve their 53-man roster through waiver claims, trades, or even signings in free agency during this time. They've got a few more position groups that could use improvement if there are opportunities to do so.

Here's a look at three position groups (and a bonus) that Brett Veach would serve well to improve over the next few days.

1. Defensive end

This is a position group where the need is apparent just from a sheer depth standpoint. Mike Danna and George Karlaftis are fine as starters, but things get shaky after that because of the slow development of Felix Anudike-Uzomah, the ACL injury sustained by Charles Omenihu, and the mystery surrounding BJ Thompson's health. Yes, Chris Jones makes every player on the defensive line better, but it wouldn't hurt to add another talented young player to the mix here.

Names to watch during roster cuts: Jets DE Braiden McGregor, Jets DE Eric Watts, Lions DE James Houston IV

2. Cornerback

This position group has been one of the more frustrating ones to follow this offseason. Injuries have really thwarted development and the ability to truly evaluate several players who are vying for the No. 2 cornerback spot opposite Trent McDuffie. The Chiefs will likely keep players like Josh Williams, Nazeeh Johnson and Jaylen Watson on the 53-man roster, but they could certainly use some outside blood to reinforce the group. Ideally, a trade for a veteran, but even a promising young player to push the aforementioned trio could suffice.

Names to watch during roster cuts: Ravens CB Bump Cooper Jr., Chargers CB Robert Kennedy, Steelers CB Darius Rush

3. Running back

Outside of Isiah Pacheco and preseason sensation Carson Steele, the running back room in Kansas City has failed to seize the moment. Clyde Edwards-Helaire has dealt with PTSD and hasn't seen the field. Deneric Prince has shown a little progress from his rookie season, but you'd feel a lot better about the running back room with an outside addition behind Pacehco and Steele.

Names to watch during roster cuts: Rams RB Boston Scott, Bills RB Darrynton Evans, Broncos RB Tyler Badie

Runner up: Offensive tackle

I'm going to add a little bonus section. I don't particularly think the Chiefs will look to add to their offensive tackle room. They've shown for a while that they're quite comfortable with their depth there. Wanya Morris, who reinjured his knee after dealing with a bone bruise suffered in the final days of training camp, could be the decided factor here. How comfortable are they with either Lucas Niang, Jason "Chu" Godrick, or Ethan Driskell as a swing tackle? I think they've shown that they're comfortable enough with Niang, while fans might not be.

Related: Chiefs Roster Cuts Tracker 2024: Keeping tabs on all of the moves to get to 53