The Kansas City Chiefs continue to make moves to trim their 53-man roster ahead of Tuesday’s deadline.
According to KC Star beat writer Herbie Teope, the Chiefs have a plan in place as it relates to TE Blake Bell and his recent hip surgery. The team will keep Bell on the 53-man roster, but place him on injured reserve shortly after, allowing him to later be designated to return from injured reserve.
In order to make room for Bell on the 53-man roster, the Chiefs will release LB Elijah Lee temporarily. Lee is a vested veteran, so he doesn’t need to pass through the league’s waiver system. He can be re-signed to the roster as early as Wednesday after the transaction is made with Bell.
Chiefs will carry TE Blake Bell (hip) on initial 53-player roster and release LB Elijah Lee, according to a source.
Lee doesn't have to go through waivers as a vested veteran. I'm told the Chiefs will place Bell on IR after 53 set, and then bring back Lee to roster.
— Herbie Teope (@HerbieTeope) August 30, 2022
Lee signed on a one-year deal as a free agent this offseason after spending time with the 49ers, Lions and Browns. A St. Joseph, Missouri native, Blue Springs and K-State alum, Kansas City is home for Lee. He played a big role on defense and special teams during the preseason. Should he return to the 53-man roster, it seems like he’ll continue to play a key role this season.
